System and Method for Security Screening

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/514,369 filed Nov. 20, 2023, which claims the priority benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63/543,667, filed Oct. 11, 2023, and which is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of: (1) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/197,840, filed May 16, 2023; and (2) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/337,288, filed Jun. 19, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/332,377, filed Jun. 9, 2023, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/201,908 filed May 25, 2023, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/311,566, filed May 3, 2023. Wherein each of application Ser. Nos. 18/337,288, 18/332,377, 18/201,908, and 18/311,566 directly claim the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/104,359 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,682,241), filed Feb. 1, 2023; and, wherein for the avoidance of doubt and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/311,566 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/104,359.

This application is also a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18/514,195, 18/514,914, 18/514,924, all filed Nov. 20, 2023; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/819,785, filed Aug. 29, 2024, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/514,877, filed Nov. 20, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 12,112,577.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18/851,199, 18/851,202, and 18/851,208, all filed Sep. 26, 2024, each of which: (1) claims the priority benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63/598,824, filed Nov. 14, 2023, and U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63/543,667, filed Oct. 11, 2023; (2) is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of, each of: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/418,972, filed Jan. 22, 2024, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/197,840, filed May 16, 2023; (3) is also based on and claims the priority benefit of: International App. Nos. PCT/US2024/013083, PCT/US24/13221, and PCT/US24/13226, all filed on Jan. 26, 2024; International App. Nos. PCT/US2024/012226 and PCT/US2024/012231, both filed on Jan. 19, 2024; International App. Nos. PCT/US24/13257, PCT/US24/13258, PCT/US24/13259, PCT/US24/13261, PCT/US24/13262, and PCT/US24/13263, all filed on Jan. 27, 2024; and International App. Nos. PCT/US24/13594, PCT/US24/13597 and PCT/US24/13599, all filed on Jan. 30, 2024; and (4) is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority and benefit of each of: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/529,705, filed on Dec. 5, 2023, and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18/421,581, 18/421,595, and 18/421,601, all filed on Jan. 24, 2024, which are continuations of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/337,288; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/418,972, filed on Jan. 22, 2024; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/406/785, filed Jan. 8, 2024; and U.S. patent applicant Ser. Nos. 18/514,015, 18/514,826, 18/514,195, 18/514,877, 18/514,914, 18/514,937, 18/514,924, 18/514,295, 18/515,004, 18/514,369 and 18/515,060, all filed on Nov. 20, 2023; and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18/427,323, 18/427,396, 18/427,438, 18/427,469, and 18/427,516, all filed on Jan. 30, 2024.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18/427,323, 18/427,469, 18/427,516, all filed Jan. 30, 2024; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/430,428, filed Feb. 1, 2024; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/790,693, filed Jul. 31, 2024.

This application is also based on and claims the priority benefit of International App. Nos. PCT/US2024/013594, PCT/US2024/013597, and PCT/US2024/013599, all filed on Jan. 30, 2024

This application is also based on and claims the priority benefit of International App. No. PCT/US2024/029551, filed May 15, 2024, and International App. Nos. PCT/US2024/029640, and PCT/US2024/029665, each filed May 16, 2024.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/790,693, filed Jul. 31, 2024; and International App. No. PCT/US2024/040370, filed Jul. 31, 2024.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18/912,954, 18/912,979, 18/912,986, 18/913,012, 18/913,028, 18/913,041, 18/913,077, 18/913,119, all filed on Oct. 11, 2024, and each of which: (1) claims the priority benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63/640,006, filed Apr. 29, 2024, U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63/543,667, filed Oct. 11, 2023, and U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63/598,824, filed Nov. 14, 2023; (2) is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/514,015, filed Nov. 20, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/197,840, filed May 16, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,935,072, and Ser. No. 18/337,288, filed Jun. 19, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,893,832, where U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/337,288 is a continuation-in-part of and claims the priority benefit U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/332,377, filed Jun. 9, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,900,732, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/201,908, filed May 25, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,881,057, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/311,566, filed May 3, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,948,404, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/104,359, filed Feb. 1, 2023 and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,682,241; (3) is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of, International App. No. PCT/US2024/013807, filed Jan. 31, 2024; (4) is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/427,323, filed Jan. 30, 2024; (5) is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/790,693, filed Jul. 31, 2024, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/665,494, filed May 15, 2024; (6) is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the priority benefit of, International App. No. PCT/US2024/029665, filed May 16, 2024.

The disclosure of each of the aforementioned applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The disclosure relates generally to asset management. Specifically, the disclosure relates to systems and methods for extracting otherwise discarded data and repurpose it to reduce data entry.

Travel carriers generally provide a passenger with the ability to check in luggage packed with a passenger's personal items, with or without a luggage fee. The luggage is often weighed to determine whether additional luggage fees are required. Then, the luggage is tagged by the airline with a printed bag tag. Each travel carrier may have its own format for printing a bag tag at the travel carrier counter. This process consumes human resources of personnel working behind the counter to finalize a check-in of the passenger, print boarding passes, process luggage, and print and attach bag tags. Airline travel carriers have also invested in kiosk machines that allow passengers to print bag tags themselves to free up some time for the counter personnel. This can allow a passenger to print and attach the printed bag tag without using the human resources of the counter personnel.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the average number of daily passengers in Fiscal Year 2021 was approximately 1.6 million. In Fiscal Year 2019, the average of daily passengers was approximately 2.9 million. Some of these passengers are traveling on a return leg of a trip. Still further, some of the passengers traveling on a return leg are returning from a cruise or high-volume resort.

There have been many attempts to reduce the cost of baggage handling, and especially the baggage handling, traveler departure, and return flight check-in from high-volume lodging entities. To simplify baggage handling during transport, a passenger is provided the option to select services from a third-party vendor to pick-up the passenger and/or baggage and transport the baggage to the airport when needed. The baggage may be picked-up from any location, such as home, office, hotel, etc. and/or delivered to any location identified by the passenger, without the passenger needing to be present.

Another attempt at baggage handling includes cross-use of employees at lodging entities, such as a hotel. One of the biggest drawbacks of cross-use of employees is that these employees are otherwise unavailable for other tasks that may arise for passengers still enjoying the amenities of the lodging entity. Hiring more employees has become a challenge in recent years due to COVID-19. Moreover, employee costs have risen. In some venues, such as cruise ships, extra employees to handle additional tasks is not just cost prohibitive but reduces the revenue of the cruise by trading paying passengers for the cost of a hired employee. The ability to print bag tags and boarding passes takes up area in the cruise ship that can be used for passenger lodging or additional revenue opportunities.

Some baggage handling services issue a valet receipt or tag that is placed on the luggage. This process still requires the baggage to receive a printed IATA bag tag with a bag tag identifier to replace the valet receipt or tag. This process can be cost prohibitive in a competitive lodging enterprise competing for clientele. Overall, the baggage handling services require a passenger to order the service using a website or mobile application, enter various passenger information that may be entered incorrectly, and pay a fee. Passengers can be remotely checked in to their flights by providing in advance all the necessary flight information of a travel itinerary using the website or mobile application. While the process seems benign, data entry errors can occur which can be very costly coupled with the additional cost of baggage handling and temporary valet tickets.

Most times after a passenger arrives at their destination, the bag tag is removed and discarded to make room for the bag tag on their return leg of travel.

An average ocean liner cruise ship has a capacity of approximately 3,000 passengers. Some larger cruise ships have a capacity of 5,400 passengers. Each passenger that will return home using an airline travel carrier must be checked in for their return flight. The cruise ship personnel will handle the precheck-in process for a return flight and/or check-in of luggage bags as well as the number of luggage bags. However, the process consumes valuable limited human resources available on the cruise ship for disembarkation. There is a need for a system and process to address these challenges that are cost and time efficient, and easy to use by any passenger.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, a method includes: matching, by at least one of at least one processor, a passenger name of a passenger in a baggage source message (BSM) with a passenger name in a manifest, wherein the BSM includes travel data of a first mode of travel of a luggage item of the passenger on an air carrier; extracting, by at least one of the at least one processor, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number from the BSM for the luggage item; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, security screening image and related data captured during a first mode of travel security screen of the luggage item using the IATA license plate number; displaying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device to analyze the screening image and related data; and obtaining via a scanning device, by at least one of the at least one processor, a mark representative of the analysis result in response to scanning an IATA license plate barcode affixed to the luggage item, wherein the analysis result is representative of one of: a security compliance of the luggage item to cross a border or to transfer to a second mode of travel, and a non-security compliance of the luggage item.

The method may further include: receiving, via the GUI, by at least one of the at least one processor, a country of origin; receiving, via the GUI, by at least one of the at least one processor, a selection of a type of the second mode of travel; loading training images of objects; performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, object detection based on the training images of objects; identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, whether an object detected within the luggage item is one of a plurality of possible prohibited objects based on regulations or rules associated with the second mode of travel; and based on identifying the object one of the plurality of possible prohibited objects, displaying, on a display, an indication of the identification of the object.

The plurality of possible prohibited objects may include weapons, bottles alcohol, irons, and electrical power strips.

The security screening image and related data may include a three-dimensional dimensional representation of an object within the luggage item.

The security screening image and related data may include tomogram data of the luggage item and contents of the luggage item.

The second mode of travel may include one of: a cruise ship, a train, a bus, a ferry, an air carrier, or a lodging entity.

The BSM may be a non-terminating BSM, and the method may further include: sorting a plurality of BSMs based on a baggage source indicator that indicates the BSM is a terminating BSM.

The method may further include: causing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a printer device to print a marker configured to bypass security screening for the second mode of travel, wherein the marker may include the results of the security analysis.

The method may further include: prior to printing the marker, accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system of the second mode of travel to obtain updated reservation information, wherein the marker may include the updated reservation information.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, a system includes: at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory, tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor and storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to: match a passenger name of a passenger in a baggage source message (BSM) with a passenger name in a manifest, wherein the BSM includes travel data of a first mode of travel of a luggage item of the passenger on an air carrier, extract an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number from the BSM for the luggage item of the passenger, access security screening image and related data captured during a first mode of travel security screen of the luggage item using the IATA license plate number, display a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device to analyze the screening image and related data, and obtain, via a scanning device, a mark representative of the analysis result in response to scanning an IATA license plate barcode affixed to the luggage item, wherein the analysis result is representative of one of: a security compliance of the luggage item to cross a border or to transfer to a second mode of travel, and a non-security compliance of the luggage item so that the luggage item.

The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute the at least one instruction to: receive, via the GUI, a country of origin, receive, via the GUI, a selection of a type of the second mode of travel, load training images of objects, perform object detection based on the training images of objects, identify whether an object detected within the luggage item is one of a plurality of possible prohibited objects based on regulations or rules associated with the second mode of travel, and based on identifying the object as one of the plurality of possible prohibited objects, display, on a display, an indication of the identification of the object.

The plurality of possible prohibited objects may include weapons, bottles alcohol, irons, and electrical power strips.

The security screening image and related data may include a three-dimensional dimensional representations of an object within the luggage item.

The security screening image and related data may include tomogram data of the luggage item and contents of the luggage item.

The second mode of travel may include one of: a cruise ship, a train, a bus, a ferry, an air carrier, or a lodging entity.

The BSM may be a non-terminating BSM, and the at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute the at least one instruction to: sort a plurality of BSMs based on a baggage source indicator that indicates the BSM is a terminating BSM.

The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute the at least one instruction to: cause a printer device to print a marker configured to bypass security screening for the second mode of travel, wherein the marker may include the results of the security analysis.

The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute the at least one instruction to: prior to printing the marker, access a reservation system of the second mode of travel to obtain updated reservation information, wherein the marker may include the updated reservation information.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions stored therein, which when executed by at least one processor causes the at least one processor to execute a method including: matching, by at least one of at least one processor, a passenger name of a passenger in a baggage source message (BSM) with a passenger name in a manifest, wherein the BSM includes travel data of a first mode of travel of a luggage item of the passenger on an air carrier; extracting, by at least one of the at least one processor, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number from the BSM for the luggage item; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, security screening image and related data captured during a first mode of travel security screen of the luggage item using the IATA license plate number; displaying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device to analyze the screening image and related data; and obtaining via a scanning device, by at least one of the at least one processor, a mark representative of the analysis result in response to scanning an IATA license plate barcode affixed to the luggage item, wherein the analysis result is representative of one of: a security compliance of the luggage item to cross a border or to transfer to a second mode of travel, and a non-security compliance of the luggage item.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the method may further include: receiving, via the GUI, by at least one of the at least one processor, a country of origin; receiving, via the GUI, by at least one of the at least one processor, a selection of a type of the second mode of travel; loading training images of objects; performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, object detection based on the training images of objects; identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, whether an object detected within the luggage item is one of a plurality of possible prohibited objects based on regulations or rules associated with the second mode of travel; and based on identifying the object one of the plurality of possible prohibited objects, displaying, on a display, an indication of the identification of the object.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the plurality of possible prohibited objects may include weapons, bottles alcohol, irons, and electrical power strips.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the security screening image and related data may include a three-dimensional dimensional representation of an object within the luggage item.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the security screening image and related data may include tomogram data of the luggage item and contents of the luggage item.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the second mode of travel may include one of: a cruise ship, a train, a bus, a ferry, an air carrier, or a lodging entity.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the BSM may be a non-terminating BSM, and the method may further include: sorting a plurality of BSMs based on a baggage source indicator that indicates the BSM is a terminating BSM.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the method may further include: causing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a printer device to print a marker configured to bypass security screening for the second mode of travel, wherein the marker may include the results of the security analysis.

With regard to the method executed in response to the instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium, the method may further include: prior to printing the marker, accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system of the second mode of travel to obtain updated reservation information, wherein the marker may include the updated reservation information.

Embodiments are described herein with reference to the attached figures wherein like reference numerals are used throughout the figures to designate similar or equivalent elements. The figures are not drawn to scale and they are provided merely to illustrate aspects disclosed herein. Several disclosed aspects are described below with reference to non-limiting example applications for illustration. It should be understood that numerous specific details, relationships, and methods are set forth to provide a full understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein. One having ordinary skill in the relevant art, however, will readily recognize that the disclosed embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods. In other instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring aspects disclosed herein. The embodiments are not limited by the illustrated ordering of acts or events, as some acts may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts or events. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts or events are required to implement a methodology in accordance with the embodiments.

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope are approximations, the numerical values set forth in specific non-limiting examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “less than 10” can include any and all sub-ranges between (and including) the minimum value of zero and the maximum value of 10, that is, any and all sub-ranges having a minimum value of equal to or greater than zero and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10, e.g., 1 to 4.

Providing a seamless and near error-free experience for the handling and transfer of luggage items while the passenger travels along a journey, allows the passenger to have an enjoyable and pleasant travel experience. While the passenger knows where they are going, the luggage item does not. The luggage item is physically handled and handed off from a passenger to an airline agent with a 10-digit license plate attached. Moreover, the originating 10-digit IATA license plate may be expired or deleted in the airport infrastructure before a passenger and their luggage need to be checked in for a return flight.

The airline infrastructure may generate a B-Type message that is a terminating B-Type message or a terminating Baggage Source Message (BSM) that may designate the terminating airport and city where the travel of the luggage item's handling and travel will terminate, as described in A BSM “Recommended Practice 1745 Baggage Information Messages” by IATA, in the Passenger Services Resolution Manual, June 2010, 30 Edition, pgs. 1110-1205, incorporated herein by reference in full, or another IATA compatible message that designates a terminating airport and city from which a luggage item's handling and travel will terminate. The IATA B-Type messages may include the 10-digit IATA license plate digits and other information linking the luggage item to the passenger.

A Departure Control System (DCS) controls various airlines operations including airport checking in baggage (i.e., luggage items), generating a passenger bag tag identifier (BTID), and data formats for printing of bag tags. The bag tags are formatted based on rules published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and include a 10-digit license plate, for example. Typically, one or more IATA Type-B messages are created that include the 10-digit license plate and flight information.

What has been considered garbage (i.e., discarded airline bag tag) is actually a missing link to cost-and-time-efficient handling of baggage by high-volume lodging entities, such as resorts and cruise lines, by way of a non-limiting example.

As used herein, “positive passenger baggage match” refers to an international regulation used to determine whether a passenger has boarded an airplane of a flight on which their checked-in baggage is loaded. If a passenger is determined not to have boarded a flight, their baggage is removed from the airplane. In the United States, 49 United States Code (U.S.C.) § 44901 includes similar requirements. As can be seen, the “garbage” at the end of the travel journey when the passenger has arrived at their destination location, holds valuable security information for lodging entities, such as resorts and cruise ships, as well as other modes or vehicles of travel to follow an airline flight.

Typically, the passenger is encouraged to remove the printed bag tag, after picking up the baggage from the carousel at a destination location. However, the originally printed bag tags have useful information and instead of discarding the original printed bag tag, it can be used 1) as a substitute for printing and/or attaching temporary valet tags; and 2) for autonomous data entry and retrieval to relieve the passenger or other employee from acquiring a passenger's personal information and return flight information.

A passenger's baggage may be tagged with an adhesive marker or bingo marker from an airline carrier which can also include an IATA license plate bar code. This marker may be placed anywhere on the baggage and can be used as a substitute for printing and/or attaching temporary valet tags or a missing IATA bag tag. For example, an airline IATA bag tag may become damaged or removed as a result of transport though the airline baggage handling system. Thus, the airline baggage marker can be used in the processes described herein.

In some examples, the airline IATA bag tag or other special use bag tags may include a printed IATA license plate and/or a radio frequency identifier (RFID) that can be read by an RFID-reader. However, RFID technology may be used about 10% of the time and is not widely available today. The system and method described herein may use the RFID that is part of the bag tag, for example, and especially if the originally printed bag tag is damaged or otherwise not capable of being scanned by a barcode scanner, by way of a non-limiting example. The RFID is used because sometimes scanning the 10-digit license plate can be a challenge for the scanners throughout the airline baggage handling system. This is because the printed text may become damaged, or the attached bag tag may be in a position that prevents the barcode from being captured. The system herein may use an RFID reader to acquire the 10-digit license plate in parallel with a barcode scanner or if needed.

In addition to using the non-discarded original IATA bag tag as a substitute for a valet tag, the IATA bag tag may be used to automate processes so that the processes are less prone to data entry errors, less burdensome on the passenger, save time and are cost efficient.

Additionally, the once considered garbage may be converted to a non-airline infrastructure smart bag tag that holds passenger information for transfer of their luggage to their room or cabin of their lodging entity and return flight information, including a mechanism for remote-check-in of the luggage item without the need for the passenger to be present at the printing of the return flight bag tag. The smart bag tag links the IATA license plate to stored data for the return flight and a conduit for checking in the luggage item.

The system described herein employs parallel methodologies to acquire luggage identifiable information to accommodate scenarios of damaged or missing IATA bag tags so that the 10-digit license plate can be acquired without a passenger input or input by other employees. For example, all of the passenger information and especially return flight information may be obtained by a process that scans or images the non-discarded original airline IATA bag tag (sometimes herein referred to as an “originating hardcopy bag tag”) and autonomously retrieves a passenger record and return flight information for remote check-in of, for example, a luggage item and/or a passenger to return home via a return flight. However, personal identifiable information (PII) may remain confidential and secure. The non-discarded originating printed IATA bag tag may be used as a machine-readable instrument for locating and tracking a luggage item by a smart baggage travel system independent of an airline infrastructure for a portion of a return path home for multi-modes of travel prior to a return flight.

The scanning of non-discarded bag tags may include scanning dockside of a lodging entity such as a cruise line, scanning at a destination airport or intermediate travel carrier upon arrival, scanning at any lodging entity, such as a hotel resort, and/or scanning at a location anywhere between a destination airport or intermediate travel carrier and the lodging entity.

In one or more embodiments, the scanning of all non-discarded bag tags may include scanning the non-discarded bag tags at any mode of travel station prior to the luggage item being loaded on a transport vehicle (i.e., van, train, bus, plane, or ferry).

The imaging of non-discarded bag tags may include imaging after the originating hardcopy bag tag is printed, imaging dockside of a lodging entity such as a cruise line, imaging at a destination airport or intermediate travel carrier upon arrival, imaging at any lodging entity, such as a hotel resort, and/or imaging at a location anywhere between a destination airport or intermediate travel carrier and the lodging entity. Imaging may include imaging printed instruments having at least a portion of information printed on the originating hardcopy bag tag. The information may include BSM data or B-Type message data, where the B-Type message contains a PNR number.

In one or more embodiments, an image may be acquired of a printed originating hardcopy bag tag with printed originating passenger information associated with a first-mode travel carrier on the originating hardcopy bag tag. The image may be acquired any time after the originating hardcopy bag tag has been printed and an image may be acquired or captured by an imaging device such as a smart communication device. The originating hardcopy bag tag may be printed using IATA guidelines for the barcode and 10-digit license plate, and other flight information. However, airlines may add other passenger information/airline information on the bag tag template at the airline's discretion.

The original printed/paper bag tag by a first-mode of travel carrier (for example, an airline) has valuable information that can be used to automate processes for checking in a passenger and/or baggage for a return leg of travel with the first-mode of travel carrier and/or develop passenger records for a manifest used by a lodging entity. Instead of removing the original printed bag tag after arrival at a destination point associated with a lodging entity, the code embedded in the license plate on the original printed bag tag can be electronically acquired, digitized, and used to match personal information, such as a passenger's name associated with a passenger from the first-mode of travel carrier with the passenger's name used by or registered with the lodging entity or other next vehicle of travel.

Using the passenger name record (PNR) number, the passenger's name and/or the IATA 10-digit license plate to build a luggage manifest or a passenger manifest preserves the PII in secure locations without the need to transfer or access such information between entities, other than what is visible to the naked eye. This can preserve the security of the PII.

In one or more embodiments, after the original bag tag is printed, text of the passenger information associated with a first-mode travel carrier printed on the bag tag may be acquired by an imaging device to obtain the passenger's name without additional personal information or PII associated with a passenger from the first-mode of travel carrier directly from the printed bag tag. The printed text can be optically recognized and converted to machine-encoded text that is searchable to identify an airline code or airline name, a passenger name record (PNR) number, the passenger's name and/or the IATA 10-digit license plate.

Moreover, the license plate on the original printed bag tag (sometimes herein referred to as an “originating hardcopy bag tag”) can be used to obtain return flight information for the passenger autonomously without the need for the passenger or employees of a lodging entity to manually enter return flight itinerary information for a luggage item or both the luggage item and the passenger. For example, this may be accomplished by using the original printed bag tag from an airline carrier without the passenger being present.

Moreover, certain passenger/airline information on the originating hardcopy bag tag can be used to obtain return flight information for the luggage item or both the passenger and luggage item autonomously without the need for the passenger or employees of a lodging entity to manually enter return flight itinerary information.

Other modes of travel (i.e., vehicles of travel) can use less stringent, different, or the same quality screening technology to screen luggage items boarding a train, bus carrier, or cruise ship or entering a lodging entity than screening required by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to travel on an air carrier. The high-tech security screening images regulated by TSA for travel by an air carrier can be used to reduce the number of screenings of luggage items by the other modes of travel when there is a direct connection from a passenger departing an air carrier (a first mode of travel) and starting their next leg of travel with a second mode of travel (i.e., second vehicle of travel) or screening such as by bus, train, cruise ship, another air carrier, lodging entity/resort or a government agency. These security screening images required by the TSA may be shared for analysis according to regulations associated with any of the other modes of travel or screening without diminishing the effectiveness of the screening process. To maintain the integrity of the travel mode analysis by way of imagery, the correspondingly tagged luggage items remain in trusted custody until custody is transferred to the next vehicle of travel (i.e., bus, train, cruise ship, a second air carrier, or lodging entity/resort) and/or next government agency for border entry. The problems of the past can be solved by the current methods and systems by using the IATA license plate and/or a linked PNR number and/or a passenger's name to obtain security images and data of the contents of the luggage item without the need for transferring or accessing other PII associated with a passenger to expedite the processing of luggage items through Customs or a border crossing security screening check point. The same IATA license plate and/or the linked PNR number and/or the passenger's name can be used to build manifests for other vehicles of travel and luggage manifests for the handling and delivery of luggage items independently of its owner.

As used herein the expressions “modes of travel” and “modes of transportation” may be used interchangeably. As used herein the expressions “modes of travel” and “vehicles of travel” may be used interchangeably. However, “modes of travel” and “vehicles of travel” may also include lodging and resorts.

While the description herein describes the governmental regulating agencies in the United States, other countries, or groups of countries joined by treaties, may also provide regulations to be followed for transportation security that requires security screening of luggage items boarding a vehicle of travel, other destinations, or countries.

The processes and systems described herein for one way of travel also apply to the reverse direction of travel to bring a passenger home.

1 FIG.A 1 FIG.B 100 121 121 100 126 1 x illustrates a block diagram of a systemfor creating at least one luggage manifest. . .may be triggered by a terminating B-Type message in accordance with one or more embodiments. The systemmay facilitate the baggage handling of a luggage item with or without the presence of a passenger from a travel carrier facility, such as an airport, to a lodging entity() or a next vehicle of travel. The terminating B-Type message is a B-Type message the includes an IATA license plate and/or passenger name record (PNR) number.

100 148 100 121 121 107 1 x 1 FIG.B In one or more embodiments, the systemmay include a server. The systemmay use parallel streams of data for creating luggage manifests. . .for a plurality of lodging entities local to a destination point (DP), as shown and describe below in relation to, delivering them to or from a travel carrier such as a cruise ship, hotel, resort, a train carrier, a bus carrier or rental car company. In one or more embodiments, the luggage items may be delivered to another designated address such as a home address, office address or a designated address.

2450 148 121 121 2400 2400 2400 2400 2450 1 x 24 FIG. 24 FIG. Each luggage item record file in a luggage manifest is an electronic luggage item brain (LIB)that is accessible by scanning an originating hardcopy bag tag, especially after leaving the airline or airport infrastructure or accessing the luggage item manifest using a computing device. The luggage manifest may be stored on serveror memory devices coupled to the server or a computing device. The luggage item manifest record in a luggage item manifest. . .may include luggage item brain programming modules(), which when executed generates an electronic luggage item brain to identify locations the luggage item needs to be delivered to or cleared from without the need for its owner to be present. The LIB programming moduleswill be described in more detail in relation to. The LIB programming modulesmay be an example of making the paper IATA bag a smart bag tag. However, if the originating IATA bag tag is missing or damaged the LIB programming modulesor LIBmay make the bingo marker or other marker smart by linking the barcode or quick-response (QR) code to stored luggage item data. Still further, any marker generated or affixed to the luggage item with a unique identifier tied to the originating hardcopy bag tag may be made smart by linking the unique identifier to the stored luggage data, outside of the airport infrastructure.

In one or more embodiments, the 10-digit IATA license plate may become as a primary key or linking index key to determine routing data and delivery data for the luggage item without the need for the passenger to be present and checking in the luggage item for its return flight home or another leg of travel with the passenger. Each luggage item record may marry the travel itinerary of the passenger to the luggage item so that the luggage item may periodically travel seamlessly independently and parallel along a travel journey of its owner.

148 149 149 The servermay include programming modules. The one or more programming modulesmay include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware.

148 15 108 108 148 15 1 FIG.B 1 FIG.B In one or more embodiments, the servermay communicate with a mobile communication device(s)of a passenger and travel information systems. The travel information systemwill be described in more detail in relation to. In one or more embodiments, the servermay communicate with the mobile communication device(s)to receive an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed instrument having at least a portion of the information printed on the originating hardcopy bag tag, as will be described in more detail in relation to.

In one or more embodiments, an image may be taken of data printed on e-paper using e-ink displayed on display devices of RFID devices or RFID bag tags. The format of the layout of the bag tag or BSM data arranged on the RFID display may vary from one air carrier to another. In this arrangement, the image data may be converted to machine-encoded text.

100 The DCS may initiate the process to create the data used for the printing of the originating hardcopy bag tag at the time the passenger checks in for a flight. This may occur in a check-in window. In some instances, the check-in window is 24 hours prior to the flight time. However, not all passengers check in early. Consequently, the arrival of the BSM at systemmay vary.

For airlines travel carriers, the IATA bag tag includes a bag tag with a standardized sequence of numbers or barcode to both identify the luggage item and match the luggage item to a passenger. If a passenger does not board a flight, their luggage item although checked in may not be loaded on the aircraft. In some instances, the luggage item may be missing. In such an instance, the baggage handling system produces a corresponding B-Type message.

100 As should be understood, the BSM data may change as the results of ordinary operation of a travel carrier, changes by a passenger, and/or inclement weather, for example, after the BSM data is created. Thus, the original BSM created at the time of check-in may not be the same as the terminating BSM sent to the system. The BSM data changes as the luggage item moves through the airport infrastructure.

108 152 138 108 151 1 FIG.B 23 FIG. A travel information systemmay generate B-Type messageswhen a luggage item (i.e., passenger luggage) is checked in for a passenger. The travel information systemmay include a flight manifeststored in a database associated with a computer system of an airline carrier, for example. The flight manifest will be described in more detail in relation to. The passenger may have more than one luggage item to be checked in. The process is essentially duplicated for all luggage items being checked for the passenger. The data from the B-Type message from the airport may be continuously used outside of the airport infrastructure and to build a manifest for one or more of second modes of travel, security integration assistance and/or baggage handling and delivery. The continuous use may be in the form of a unified B-Type message format through universal B-Type messaging communicated using the Internet Protocols over the Internet or web-based networks.

14 FIG.A 2 FIG.A 108 By way of a non-limiting example, a B-Type message may be a Baggage Source Message (BSM) as will be described in more detail in relation to. The originating hardcopy bag tag, for example, as printed includes various information contained in the BSM, as will be described in relation to. A travel information systemor other computer system associated with an airline carrier may communicate a terminating BSM to or through a destination/terminating airport. The baggage handling systems may generate other B-Type messages according to standard operating procedures for airport handling of baggage. While the disclosure herein describes terminating BSMs, any other terminating B-Type message now or in the future with terminating codes, IATA license plate, passenger's name, and PNR number may be used.

108 153 148 152 153 148 The travel information systemmay include a B-Type message communicatorconfigured to communicate the terminating BSM to server. In one or more embodiments, the B-Type messageand the B-Type message communicatormay be associated with a computer system or server system that is associated with an airline travel carrier. In one or more embodiments, the B-Type messages may include other B-Type messages including a BSM created for a luggage item checked-in for an imminent return flight. The B-Type messages may include other messages that indicate the status of a luggage item. The B-Type messages may be retrieved by serverby upload or download operations.

148 158 149 158 14 FIG.A The servermay include programming instructions, which when executed cause the reception of the B-Type messages, such as terminating BSMs, by a terminating B-Type message receiverof the programming modules. The terminating B-Type message receivermay be a terminating BSM receiver. The terminating BSM may be for the air carrier and/or baggage handling system of an airport where the flight carrying the checked-in luggage item terminates at a final airport destination, as an example. At the final airport destination, the luggage item will leave the airport infrastructure. The terminating airport coding in a terminating BSM is described in relation to.

149 402 15 148 4 FIG.B The programming modulesmay include programming instructions, which when executed cause an image data receiverB, as described in more detail in relation to, to receive image data. The image data is from the mobile communication deviceof the passenger. In lieu of the mobile communication device, another computing device associated with the passenger may be used. For example, the passenger may email the image data to themselves. Log into a public computing device and send the image data to the server, for example.

15 100 100 Prior to traveling, the passenger may sign-up for a luggage handling service using a personal computing device or a mobile communication device. The systemmay provide a registration graphical user interface to allow the passenger to register for the service. The registration may include providing biometric information to validate or verify the identity of the user/passenger. The biometric information may be used to unlock passenger identifiable information, such as driver's license data and passport information, stored by system.

402 The receiverB may include a network interface and can extract passenger information so that the luggage item image can be correlated with the passenger record and/or luggage item record linked to the appropriate passenger.

100 The text on the originating hardcopy bag tag and/or printed instrument includes at least a portion of the BSM data. The passenger that has checked in and transferred custody to the airline or airport infrastructure may take an image of the printed BSM data and send the printed BSM data as evidence that the passenger and the luggage item are checked in and boarding the flight for the first leg or first mode of travel. In one or more embodiments, the passenger may print an originating hardcopy bag tag at a kiosk. The passenger may take an image of the printed originating bag tag from the kiosk and/or the marker or receipt included at the end of the originating hardcopy bag tag or included in the boarding pass jacket or folder. In one or more embodiments, the marker or receipt may be texted or emailed to the passenger. The passenger may provide such information (i.e., text, email, or image data) to systemfor capturing or recognizing the printed BSM data such as the IATA license plate number. As used herein, the terms “IATA license plate number” and “IATA license plate” may be used interchangeably.

In one or more embodiments, the image may initiate creation of a luggage manifest record in a luggage manifest for a particular passenger.

For example, the passenger may send a picture of the IATA bag tag that may include a 10-digit license plate, which is also in the BSM. This provides a link between the passenger and luggage item via the 10-digit license plate. The BSM also includes a PNR number which provides access to a passenger's return flight information. The PNR number may be a Super PNR number and provide information regarding a lodging entity, rental car, and other travel information.

The BSM may be used to obtain a PNR number. The PNR number may then be used to obtain and verify passenger itinerary information for routing the luggage item to the correct lodging entity from a destination location. Moreover, the merged data from the passenger and the BSM from the airline travel carrier may be used to validate the luggage item and the delivery instructions without the presence of the passenger by using an electronic BSM and the originating hardcopy bag tag.

2 3 3 FIGS.A andB-C 2450 As will be described in more detail in relation to, the originating hardcopy bag tag may also include a PNR number and the passenger's name. The printed text in the image may be converted to machine-encoded text that is searchable. The information in the image from the passenger and the information from the BSM, for example, may be correlated and validated and create a key fob from the originating hardcopy bag tag that may follow the luggage item around outside of the airport infrastructure until the luggage item is checked in for a return flight. When the luggage item is checked in for the return flight, a new IATA license plate is assigned to the luggage item. The LIBis then updated to link the IATA license plate to the delivery locations and pickup location and/or government security locations to the new printed IATA license plate.

Each manifest MX may have some pre-populated information associated with a passenger (arriving client) expected to arrive on a particular day to continue a journey with a lodging entity. Each manifest MX may be associated with a particular lodging entity, resort, or vehicle of travel. The manifest MX may include entries of arriving clients for delivering luggage to home addresses or other designated addresses.

190 16 FIG. The terminating B-Type message with a passenger name match may be used to trigger a security screening integration assistant system() to expedite or bypass security screening for the next vehicle of travel.

The inventor has determined that the IATA license plate captured for use as a linking key to airline information for a passenger's return home and to build a luggage item manifest record may also be used to access security images and data previously captured by a security screening device used to clear a luggage item for boarding an air carrier.

40 45 50 16 FIG. After check-in and custody transfer, the luggage item, before being loaded into the cargo hold of an airplane, is sent through an automated conveyor system of a first security screening machine system (FSSMS)of the baggage handling area. The initial screening process may be performed by large X-ray machines, as will be described in more detail in. These machines are designed to detect a range of materials, including explosives and other contraband. Baggage is screened using dual-energy X-ray systems that allow security personnel to differentiate between organic and inorganic materials based on their atomic number. This helps in identifying potentially dangerous substances. If the X-ray scan shows something suspicious, the bag is diverted for further inspection. This usually involves a physical inspection by a trained security officer and may also involve the use of more advanced scanning technologies like CT (Computed Tomography) scanners (i.e., CT imaging machine,), which can provide a more detailed, 3D images of the bag's contents. In some cases, explosive trace detection (ETD) machines may also be used. These machines can detect traces of explosives on the outside of the bag or on the items inside the bag. In one or more embodiments, screening may swab the bag or item and then analyze the swab for any explosive residue.

113 40 The security images such as 3D images are stored in a non-transitory, tangible memoryfor security screening images and data. The FSSMSmay be performed by or for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or another approved contractor. However, the items allow for checked in luggage items may be different for luggage items brought onboard a cruise ship, allowed in a resort, or in some countries.

The government agency that governs security screening of airlines is the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). On the other hand, the screening process for cruise ships may be regulated by the Coast Guard or the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) of DHS. DHS may allow a cruise ship company to have additional rules provided the company meets minimum governmental regulations. The TSA may also regulate the screening of baggage on trains of the railway systems and bus carriers.

190 16 FIG. By way of a non-limiting example, the security screening integration assistant (SSIA) systemis described in relation toand may be used to assist in the bypass of the security screening performed independently by the cruise ship, train station, bus station, resort, or lodging entity, where the secure custody of a luggage item from a cargo hold of an air carrier may be transferred to a trusted custody handler to maintain security integrity of the luggage item for its next mode of travel. This may reduce the processing by the security screening lines at the cruise ship, train station, bus station, resort, or lodging entity. More importantly, reducing the processing of previously screened luggage item that have remained in trusted custody can limit the need to alter the algorithms for security screening to speed up processing lines or reduce the effectiveness of the security screening because of long lines that cause passengers to miss their connective flight or other travel journey arrangements to get through Customs.

170 170 40 The security screening trigger generatormay identify those luggage items that need to go through security screening for the next vehicle of travel based on matches between a passenger in the manifest and a terminating BSM, for example. The security screening trigger generatormay generate a trigger to expedite the processing of image and data file from the FSSMSof the originating air carrier, for example, before the luggage item is off-loaded from the air carrier cargo hold. This may save valuable machine resources by eliminating the need to unnecessarily reimage luggage items that have TSA quality images already with useful information for the next vehicle of travel.

100 121 121 108 121 121 126 121 121 2450 1 x 1 x 1 x 1 FIG.B The systemmay be configured to build a luggage manifest. . .for each lodging entity based on information from a passenger correlated with a received terminating BSM associated with a travel information system. The luggage manifest. . .may identify handling and delivery instructions for luggage items arriving at a travel carrier, such as an airline travel carrier, or destination point is to be picked up and delivered to a lodging entity(), such as a cruise ship, hotel, or resort. The luggage manifest. . .may identify handling and delivery instructions for a round trip experience of a luggage item including any security clearance locations mandated by Government agencies (i.e., Customs and Border Protection or Coast Guard) or business entities. The luggage manifest record may indicate a baggage fee, or a baggage fee waiver associated with the air carrier for the designated return flight. The luggage item manifest may include the LIBof each luggage item for a particular vehicle of travel or a general manifest for home addresses or designated address deliveries.

100 162 149 158 160 160 160 164 The systemmay include non-transitory, tangible memory devicefor storing the received B-Type messages (i.e., terminating BSM). The programming modulesmay include a B-Type message receiverand a B-Type message processing module. Each received B-Type message may be processed by a B-Type message processing module. The B-Type message processing modulemay include programming instructions, which when executed cause a B-Type message sorterto sort the B-Type messages to isolate the terminating BSM. The sorting may include sorting by one or more of terminating location or airport location code, day, time of arrival, or travel carrier. This may set a resource schedule for handling the luggage volume so that the luggage item's travel journey experience is on schedule and accurate according to the luggage item's electronic brain.

160 164 164 100 The B-Type message processing modulemay include one or more message sorters. The message sortermay sort the B-Type message to find those B-Type messages with matching IATA license plates set to terminate a terminating airport, on any given day or hour, to build luggage manifests of luggage items of passenger's terminating at the terminating airport and using the systemfor luggage handling and delivery and/or security clearance handling.

In one or more embodiments, the luggage item that is terminating at an airport may be required to undergo a security screening such as for border control. In another example, the luggage item that is terminating at an airport may be required to undergo a security screening for one of a lodging entity or another vehicle of travel.

14 FIG.A 14 FIG.A The processing of the terminating BSMs or B-Type messages is described in more detail in relation to. B-Type messages, such as BSMs, may include a baggage source indicator that indicates a terminating BSM and non-terminating BSM. Non-terminating BSMs or B-Type messages may be one of local, transfer and remote, as described in relation to.

100 100 160 100 The systemmay filter B-Type messages related to passengers expected to arrive on a particular day, for example. However, if a passenger made reservation changes to arrive earlier than originally intended, the image of the originating hardcopy bag tag may alert the systemof such a change when processing terminating B-Type messages by the B-Type message processing module. The manifest MX may not have been updated with the new arrival information in time for processing. The systemmay be configured to generate luggage item manifest records and update manifests even with stale or incomplete information in manifests MX from a lodging entity, going home, or other vehicle of travel.

100 149 By way on a non-limiting example, systemmay include the programming modulesthat may include programming instructions, which when executed may be configured to receive B-Type messages from each airport and start the sorting and matching from the received B-Type messages according to the schedule of the airport and operating times.

160 166 The B-Type message processing modulemay include programming instructions, which when executed cause a B-Type message matcherto match the passenger's name (PN) in a terminating BSM to the name of the arriving client in the manifest file. The passenger information in the B-Type message may be matched to pre-loaded information in a respective one manifest MX for a lodging entity, going home, or a vehicle of travel. For example, some luggage items may need to be delivered to a train station, bus station, or home.

166 The terminating BSM includes various travel data of a first mode of travel carrier of a checked-in luggage item on an air carrier. The manifest MX may have partial data. Therefore, in one or more embodiments, the matching by the B-Type message matchermay include programming instructions, which when executed may cause matching a passenger's name of the passenger in the received BSM with the passenger's name in a manifest for a second mode of travel different from the first mode of travel. The second mode of travel may be local to the airport associated with the airport code. The manifest can be any manifest including a home delivery manifest, security manifest, a lodging entity manifest, or a different mode of transportation manifest.

166 In one or more embodiments, the matching by the B-Type message matchermay include programming instructions, which when executed may cause matching, by the at least one processor, a passenger name record (PNR) number of the passenger in the received BSM with the PNR number in a manifest for a second mode of travel different from the first mode of travel. The second mode of travel may be local to the airport associated with the airport code.

166 In one or more embodiments, the matching by the B-Type message matchermay include programming instructions, which when executed may cause matching, by the at least one processor, airline information and a flight number of the passenger in the received BSM with the airline information and the flight number in a manifest for a second mode of travel different from the first mode of travel. The second mode of travel may be local to the airport associated with the airport code.

100 121 121 1 x 6 FIG. The systemmay build a luggage manifest. . .to handle the luggage item of the arriving client (i.e., passenger) so that the luggage item can travel independently and/or parallel with the passenger. The system may also build a master manifest, as will be described in relation to, for the passenger, so that they are made aware of when their accommodation is ready or a reservation change.

121 121 1 x The data in the luggage manifest. . .may be based on converted text from the text captured by the passenger on the originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed instrument (i.e., marker or bingo marker) having at least a portion of the information on the originating hardcopy bag tag.

160 168 121 121 1 x The B-Type message processing modulemay include programming instructions, which when executed cause a B-Type message data extractorto extract luggage identifiable information (LII) from the B-Type message and merge the data into the luggage manifest. . .. By way of a non-limiting example, the manifest MX may indicate the next mode of travel or next vehicle of travel. For example, the manifest MX may be for ABC cruise lines. The extracted data may include any missing luggage item data required by the luggage manifest. For example, extracted information may include the IATA license plate number, the passenger's name, the airline, the flight number, and/or a passenger name record number.

190 170 170 171 172 173 190 16 FIG. 16 FIG. Therefore, once a match is detected, the IATA license plate and/or passenger's name may be extracted from the terminating B-Type message. Furthermore, a trigger may be sent, using wired or wireless communication protocols, to a security screening integration assistant (SSIA) system() via a security screening trigger generator, if a match is found. The trigger generatormay include programming instructions which when executed sends the IATA license plate (IATA-LP)associated with the luggage item to be screened and/or the passenger's name (PN)and/or PNR number, for example, to the SSIA system(). This may be based on sorting of terminating B-Type messages.

100 190 In one or more embodiments, based on matching the passenger name or other travel data in the airline's B-Type message with the passenger name in the flight manifest, triggers, within at least one of the at least one processor, a security screening integration assistant (SSIA) process. This process may be performed within systemor by a remote system. The SSIA process may include accessing and assembling security screening image and related data captured during a first mode of travel security screen using the IATA license plate number and communicating the assembled security screening image and related data to an integrated security screening station.

100 190 In one or more embodiments, based on matching travel data in the airline's B-Type message with available passenger information in the manifest MX of a second mode of travel, triggers, within at least one of the at least one processor, a security screening integration assistant (SSIA) process. This process may be performed within systemor by a remote system. The SSIA process may include accessing and assembling security screening image and related data captured during a first mode of travel security screen using the IATA license plate number and communicating the assembled security screening image and related data to an integrated security screening station.

2670 113 40 100 113 100 26 FIG.A The analysis by ISSS() may use shared image files and security data from memoryof the first security screening machine system (FSSMS). However, the systemmay use the data from terminating BSM that includes the IATA license plate, PNR number and/or a passenger's name to access the security images and data files in memory, for example, without the need to access any additional PII. The systemmay use the data in at least one image of the origination hardcopy bag tag or printed instrument having a portion of information from the BSM to acquire the PNR number and the passenger's name and/or the IATA license plate to access the shared security image files without the need to access any additional PII.

26 26 FIGS.A-B 15 FIG. 4 4 FIG.A,B 412 4 The data for the marker may be updated with information associated with pass or fail indicators of the security screening analysis described in. The marker may include the room number or cabin number, a floor or level number, etc., for delivery of the luggage item inside of the lodging entity. The marker is described in relation to. The marker may be generated by marker generatorin, orC. As described herein, markers MK may be printed for luggage handling, sorting, and transport. For example, printing of a marker may be triggered based on a security clearance status, reservation data updates, and more.

149 176 180 176 112 112 180 112 1 FIG.B 1 FIG.B 1 FIG.B The programming modulesmay include programming instructions, which when executed cause a PNR number matcherto match a PNR number and PNR data validatorto validate the accessed PNR data. Based on the PNR number in the B-Type message and the PNR number in the image data, the PNR numbers may be matched by the PNR number matcher. Once there is a match, the PNR number may be added to a luggage item record. However, the PNR data may be needed to determine travel information for the next leg of travel for the luggage item. For example, the data in the PNR() may include data related to a lodging entity, a car rental, air travel carrier, etc. In one or more embodiments, the programming modules may obtain the PNR data from PNR(). The PNR data validatormay validate the PNR data from PNR() for the next leg of travel and creating the digital luggage item record for a luggage item manifest.

112 In general, airlines update the PNRevery time there is a change. Accordingly, the PNR data may update while the passenger is on a cruise or engaging in a travel experience. The passenger may obtain such a change (i.e., updates) in travel. However, the luggage manifest may need to periodically validate any stored PNR data for a luggage item record, so the luggage item arrives on time and to the location needed with little interaction from the luggage item's owner. The term validate may include obtaining updates to the PNR data.

100 In one or more embodiments, the systemmay include a manifest MX from a lodging entity with passenger information for an expected arrival of a passenger. In real time operation, because of the thousands of passengers traveling globally on any one day, itineraries change. As mentioned previously, the passenger knows where they are going but the luggage item does not. Changes or delays can cause misplaced, delayed arrival, or lost luggage items, which can diminish the overall experience of the travel experience of the luggage item. The travel experience of the luggage item can directly impact the travel experience of its owner.

149 185 121 121 121 121 100 100 100 100 1 x 1 x The programming modulesmay include programming instructions, which when executed cause a luggage item manifest record creatorto create a luggage item manifest record for entry in a corresponding luggage manifest. . .. The digital luggage item record and/or simulated B-Type message may be entered into the luggage item record and loaded in a luggage item manifest. . .for a particular lodging entity or travel carrier for a next leg of travel. In one or more embodiments, the digital luggage item manifest record may be “PENDING” until the luggage item is offloaded from an airplane of an airline travel carrier and a barcode of the IATA bag tag on the originating hardcopy bag tag is scanned by an acquiring device of the system. This may register the arrival of the luggage item with system. The systemmay be used outside of the airport computing infrastructure in one or more embodiments. In one or more embodiments, systemmay overlap with the airport computing infrastructure but may expand access to of the luggage data to offsite computing systems for use by lodging entities and other modes of transportation using the IATA license plate numbers, for example.

In one or more embodiments, there may be a need to match passenger names from any number of manifests based on terminating B-Type message to build a luggage item manifest record, such as for home delivery, security screening, security screening with transfer mode of travel. A home delivery manifest may have a list of registered passengers that scheduled a delivery of their luggage item(s) to a home address or other designated address, for example.

1 FIG.D 1 FIG.D 1 FIG.A 100 illustrates a block diagram of the systemfor creating at least one luggage manifest triggered by a non-terminating B-Type message in accordance with an embodiment. The non-terminating B-Type message is a B-Type message that includes an IATA license plate number, passenger's name and/or passenger name record (PNR) number. The non-terminating B-type message may be sorted by a baggage source indicator, multiple baggage source indicators or all baggage source indicators.is similar to, so only the differences will be described in detail.

1 FIG.D 26 FIGS.B 158 100 149 104 In, a non-terminating B-Type message receiver′ is provided. By way of a non-limiting example, systemmay include the programming modulesthat may be configured to receive B-Type messages from an airport and start the sorting and matching from the non-terminating B-Type messages according to the schedule of the airport and operating times. As described in relation to, the first-mode travel carriermay be an air travel carrier for a flight that originates in another country.

158 158 Although the description applies to “non-terminating B-Type messages” as it applies to an airline or airport infrastructure, in one or more embodiments, the non-terminating message receiver′ may be overridden or controlled to be an all B-Type message receiver. In this manner, the B-Type message receiver′ may receive all B-Type messages to sort all passengers against a flight manifest, for example, for security screening processing.

In one or more embodiments, there may be a need to match passenger names from any number of manifests based on any type of B-Type message to build a luggage item manifest record.

100 151 190 170 170 190 1 FIG.A 16 FIG. For those air carriers originating outside of a country, and landing at an airport, matched by an airport code, that is a first border crossing, for example, the systemmay receive the entire flight manifestand non-terminating B-Type messages. The terminating B-Type messages are received and processed in. Those messages arriving at an airport that also require a Customs security clearance, for example, are matched by comparing the passenger's names in the flight manifest and sorted B-Type messages. Therefore, once there is a match detected and the IATA license plate and the passenger's name and/or PNR number are extracted from the non-terminating B-Type message, a trigger may be sent to a security screening integration assistant (SSIA) system() via a security screening trigger generator. The trigger generatormay include programming instructions, which when executed, send the IATA license plate associated with the luggage item to be screened and/or the passenger's name and/or PNR number, for example, to the SSIA system.

160 164 100 The B-Type message processing module′ may include programming instructions, which when executed may cause a message sorter′ to sort for a non-terminating airport to build luggage manifests for luggage items that will be processed through Customs at the non-terminating airport. In one or more embodiments, the manifest may be a security assistant processing manifest. In other words, some of the luggage items are not handled by systemoutside of the airport infrastructure.

In other embodiments, a passenger name matching in a manifest MX may be added to another manifest as well. For example, depending on the origination of the flight, a luggage item may need to be processed through a first security station using a non-terminating B-Type message at a first airport location and then through a second security station using a terminating B-Type message at a second airport location.

160 166 14 FIG.A The B-Type message processing module′ may include programming instructions, which when executed cause a B-Type message matcher′ to match the passenger's name in a non-terminating B-Type to the name of the arriving client (i.e., registered passenger) in a general manifest file. The passenger information in the B-Type message may be matched to pre-loaded information in a respective one manifest MX for a lodging entity or a mode of travel. The non-terminating B-Type message, such as a non-terminating BSM, is described in relation to.

160 168 121 121 1 x The B-Type message processing module′ may include programming instructions, which when executed cause a B-Type message data extractor′ to extract information from the non-terminating B-Type message and merge the data into the luggage manifest. . .and/or the luggage item manifest record.

26 FIG.B 24 FIG. 185 2450 As will be described in relation to, the non-terminating B-Type message may start the LIB item manifest record creatorbefore the terminating B-Type message. However, because of delays or changes that occur in the air travel industry, the LIB() may be updated with new LIB data based on the information in the terminating B-Type message, such as a terminating BSM.

For example, each change may produce a new PNR number with new flight or travel information.

1 FIG.B 100 As described in, the first leg of travel may have been on an airplane. However, the luggage item may have been picked up by employees of systemor other baggage handlers from a train station, bus station, hotel, etc. before being scanned to register the luggage item as arrived at a lodging entity according to the luggage manifest. At the lodging entity, the luggage item begins its next leg of travel. It may be a cruise ship or a resort.

In one or more embodiments, using the originating flight airline bag tag for check in, for a return leg of travel, allows for the ability to address the major flaws in the current remote check-in process. Focus on cruise line check-in has revolved around valet tags which allow the cruise line to check the passenger in for a flight retrieving the boarding pass and valet tags on the ship while at sea with all the work for the check in process running through overburdened staff on the ship under serious time constraints. The check in process is difficult and unreliable because you have to create hybrid airline check-in functions to allow this process to happen on the ship. Other issues include the airline check in window that was expanded to 48-hours to try to help the struggle on cruise ships to allow for more time to handle the work and other attempts to address the workload on the ship. This was addressed in the patent for a one-page document to allow for a faster process for the printing of documents for all passengers checking in from the ship and delivering valet tags and boarding documents to each room for each passenger using the service. All these obstacles limit the volume and the financial success of the product. The current systems and methods disclosed herein remove the work from the ship staff and any delivery of documents to the rooms for each passenger. Using the technology lite or B-Type message check in process with the originating bag tag (previously garbage) allows for a seamless check in process off the ship because the bag has already been marked with important retrievable data allowing the user to access the airline check-in process. This seamless baggage process will allow the already tagged bag to flow through the process with an identifier that allows for an information flow for airline check in. The original IATA bag tag scanning also allows for other remote operations at hotels, resorts etc. to have limited technology, workstations printers and space, as well as allowing for a seamless and cost-effective system throughout the remote check in network and allowing for a financially sustainable process.

1 FIG.B 100 100 2450 illustrates a block diagram of a systemfor checking in a passenger for return legs of travel in accordance with an embodiment. In one or more embodiments, the systemmay be used to check in the passenger for the return leg and or to activate a LIBof an arriving luggage item.

1 FIG.B provides an example travel journey of a luggage item along multiple legs of travel to a lodging entity or next mode of travel.

100 100 108 104 110 106 128 126 126 108 110 128 100 107 126 The systemis denoted between lines A-A and B-B. The systemmay communicate with the travel information systemof a first-mode travel carrier, the travel information systemof an optional intermediate travel carrierand/or the travel information systemof a lodging entity. In the embodiments described herein, the lodging entityis a cruise ship. The travel information systems,andmay include web-based servers connected to the Internet, for example. One or more components of the systemare located local to a DPwhere the destination point is also local to a lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, the lodging entitymay be a resort destination or hotel.

104 106 The first-mode travel carriermay be one of an airline carrier, bus carrier, and a train carrier. However, for the purposes of discussion, the examples will be described in relation to the first-mode travel carrier being an airline carrier. The optional intermediate travel carriermay be one of an airline carrier, bus carrier, and a train carrier.

140 1 2 3 138 102 126 4 1 102 104 2 104 107 3 106 3 106 107 2 3 107 3 140 The travel journey, represented as a dashed line, denotes a path of travel legs L, L, and Lof the passenger and passenger luggagefrom the point of origin (i.e., home) to the point of lodging with or embarkation at the lodging entityvia leg L. Leg Lis a travel path journeyed from hometo a first-mode travel carrier. Leg Lis a travel path journeyed using the first-mode travel carrierto the DPor to optional leg Lassociated with an intermediate travel carrier. Optional leg Lis a travel path journeyed using the intermediate travel carrierto the DP. For example, a passenger may end its travel path at the end of leg Land board vehicle of a different travel carrier or flight to begin travel along leg Lto the DP. Still further, it should be recognized that the travel path of leg Lmay include one or more intermediate travel carriers. In some instances, the passenger's journey may have zero (0) intermediate travel carriers, such as in the case of a direct flight or direct travel journey to the destination point DP along the path of the travel journey.

1 FIG.C 1 FIG.C 1 FIG.B 100 100 100 illustrates a block diagram of the systemfor checking in baggage of a passenger for return legs of travel after disembarking from a lodging entity in accordance with an embodiment. The system ofis the same systemof. However, components of systemmay be distributed at different off-airport locations for acquiring the OP-BTI.

2 1 4 3 2 1 2 1 According to one or more embodiments, the return path may include travel leg L′ and L′, after leaving the lodging entity on L′. The return path may include L′, L′ and L′, for example. In one or more embodiments, the passenger itinerary may include temporary lodging reservation after L′ and before starting the journey L′. As can be seen, there are many possible modes of travel and lodging stays for a passenger travel experience.

142 For the return path, the originating printed bag tag′ may be used for at least one of tracking, locating and information gathering in other modes of travel prior to baggage check-in for a return flight. In one or more embodiments, the luggage item may be untethered from the passenger for some modes of travel. The passenger may travel bagless using other modes of travel, in some instances.

100 2700 3100 100 2700 3100 27 FIG. 31 FIG. According to one or more embodiments, the systemmay be integrated or connected to system() and/or() to untether a luggage item from the passenger for other modes of travel to be checked in for a return flight within the regulated check-in window, print a return flight bag tag for placement on the luggage item, and transfer the luggage item into the custody of the airline carrier. In one or more embodiments, the systemmay be integrated or connected to systemand/or.

100 2700 3100 100 2700 3100 According to one or more embodiments, the system,and/ormay cause a printer associated with the airline carrier or a kiosk of the airline carrier to print a return flight IATA compatible bag tag for the return flight with an airline travel carrier. In one or more embodiments, system,and/ormay include a printing device to print an IATA bag tag for a return flight to replace the originating hardcopy bag tag with the return flight IATA bag tag.

In one or more embodiments, the printed IATA bag tag number on the return flight IATA bag tag may be recycled for use at off-airport locations and temporary lodging entities as a recycled unique identifier during those portions of the return path after the luggage items have been off-loaded from an airline carrier and picked up from the airline or airport infrastructure. The return flight IATA bag tag on the return path is a non-discarded machine-readable bag tag for any other modes of travel and lodging entities, including temporary lodging entities after the luggage has completed its return path on an airline travel carrier.

107 126 100 100 107 107 The destination point DPis local to the port of embarkation of the lodging entity. The systemor one or more components of the system may be controlled and manned by a third-party service provider independent from any travel carriers. The systemmay be controlled and manned by a travel carrier local to the destination point DP. The travel carrier local to the destination point DPmay be an airline carrier, a train carrier, a bus carrier, a cruise ship carrier, or combination thereof. The acquiring devices described herein may be distributed at off-airport locations to locate and track luggage items such as at alternate modes of travel.

106 2 106 3 107 In some instances, the traveled paths by the first-mode travel carrier and the travel path of the optional intermediate travel carriermay be reversed, such that the travel path journeyed by the passenger on leg Lmay be by an intermediate travel carrierand the travel path journeyed by the passenger on leg Lto the DPmay be using the first-mode travel carrier.

100 116 142 142 142 114 104 114 104 2 FIG.A A component of systemmay include a scannerfor scanning a bag tag (BT). An example BTfrom an airline carrier will be described in more detail in relation to. The BTis an original paper bag tag (OP-BT) with an original bag tag identifier (O-BTI), such as from a first-mode travel carrierof a first leg of travel. The O-BTImay be stored in a database by first-mode travel carrier.

15 142 142 In one or more embodiments, a passenger with a mobile communication devicemay capture an image of the BT. According to one example, the BTmay have been printed by a kiosk at the airport and placed on the luggage item by the passenger.

15 212 2 FIG.B In one or more embodiments, a passenger with a mobile communication devicemay capture an image of a printed instrument having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag. By way of a non-limiting example, a printed instrument may be an at-home printed bag tag. In other examples, the printed instrument may be a conventional airline tag markeras described in relation to. By way of a non-limiting example, a printed instrument may be other printed documents with passenger/airline information that can be used to extract a passenger name record (PNR) number directly from the instrument or access the PNR number from memory operably accessible by a computer system that is associated with the airline carrier, the airline carrier being the source of the printed text and layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag to be printed and/or the printed instrument having at least a portion of the printed text on the originating hardcopy bag tag.

100 150 138 138 In one or more embodiments, the components of the systemmay also include a radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader or a near field communication (NFC) identification reader, both of which are referenced to herein as an RFID-R, denoted in a dashed box to denote that it is optional. The RFID reader receives electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags. In some instances, the passenger luggagemay use an RFID tag or near field communication (NFC) compatible tags that produce a 10-digit license plate or equivalent identifier. However, currently most luggage still uses the printed or paper bag tag as the primary means of identifying a passenger's piece of luggage.

138 In one or more embodiments, the passenger luggagemay include a radio-frequency communication device such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) tracker, a GSM-5G tracker, a WIFI-enabled communication device, a BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE) device, a BLUETOOTH-enabled communication device, a short-range RF communication device and a long-range communication device using compatible wireless communication protocols.

138 142 The term passenger luggagemay include one or more luggage items. The one or more luggage items may include a first luggage item. In some instances, only the BTof the first luggage item may need to be scanned to digitally recreate a passenger's bag number.

114 142 114 142 142 2 FIG.A 2 FIG.A The stored digital O-BTImay be converted to a format compatible with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) bag tags code and other standardized formatting of the carrier. For example, an airline bag tag may include an IATA code that includes a three-character alpha numerical geocode designating airports and metropolitan areas. The IATA code is also known as an IATA location identifier. The IATA also publishes industry standard rules for creation of bag tags for the airline industry. The printed BTmay include a 10-digit license plate and corresponding bar code shown in. The O-BTImay include information to create the IATA geocode, the original airline flight information, the 10-digit license plate, and other BT information printed on a BT, as will be described in. The BTmay use a license plate used for other travel carriers.

100 118 138 100 120 136 136 15 FIG. A component of the systemmay include an imaging devicefor capturing an image of the passenger luggage. The components of the systemmay include an optional printing devicethat is configured to print on a substrate a marker (MK). An example MKis described in relation to.

100 122 122 116 118 120 130 122 116 118 120 120 7 FIG. The components of the systemmay include a computing device, as will be described in more detail in relation to. The computing devicemay be in communication with the scanner, the imaging device, and the printing devicevia wireless communication, denoted by reference numeral. In one or more embodiments, the computing devicemay communicate with the scanner, the imaging device, and/or the printing deviceusing wired communication protocols. The printing devicemay be a laser printer, inkjet printer, or other printer device.

136 It should be understood from this disclosure that the system herein accommodates for many possible outcomes that can be experienced by various passengers. The need for a MKis because some baggage that arrives at a destination may not include the originally printed bag tag or the airline's marker, both of which may include an IATA bar code. In such a situation, the system would need to prepare a marker to temporarily tag the baggage.

136 26 FIG.A Additionally, the MKmay be used in one or more embodiments for those luggage items that are processed through an integrated security screening station, such as described in.

175 175 148 100 175 2450 175 175 In one or more embodiments, the luggage item may be provided a wireless tracking device. By way of a non-limiting example, the wireless tracking devicemay be a tracking device that may include accelerometers (ACC), gyroscopes, Global Positioning System (GPS) and/or an Inertial Navigation Unit (INU) to determine its own location, such location may be sent in a computing device (i.e., server) of system. The wireless tracking devicemay have a unique identifier such as a registered serial number, media access control (MAC) address, or another assigned unique identifier, which is stored in the LIB, expanded B-Type message, another B-Type message, and/or a manifest for one of a lodging entity, a mode of transportation or other manifest. The wireless tracker devicemay also be programmed with a unique identifier of the passenger and/or the luggage item, such as a passenger's name, a PNR number, a Super PNR number, IATA license plate number, portions of the data from a B-Type message or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, wireless tracker devicemay be a temporary or removable tracker.

175 The wireless tracking devicemay be a an AIRTAG by APPLE Inc., a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) tracker, a GSM-5G tracker, a WIFI-enabled communication device, a BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE) device, a BLUETOOTH-enabled communication device, short-range RF communication device and a long-range communication device using compatible wireless communication protocols.

100 127 126 127 126 100 175 127 100 126 For short-range communication devices, such as without limitation, WIFI-enabled communication device, a BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE) device, and a BLUETOOTH-enabled communication device, the systemmay include remote network devicesin lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, the remote network devicesmay be those of the lodging entityand used by systemto carry location data by the wireless tracking device. Alternately or in addition to, some of the remote network devicesmay be owned by systemand others are owned by the lodging entity.

175 175 10 175 In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking devicemay be temporarily assigned to the luggage item. For example, the wireless tracking devicemay be configured to communicate in a designated area Dsuch as within a cruise ship and a nearby surrounding areas such as dockside. Once the luggage item is disembarking and checked in for the return flight, for example, or at some other time, the wireless tracking devicemay be removed and re-assigned to another luggage item for the next cruise on the cruise ship.

10 10 175 For example, a cruise ship area (i.e., designated area D) may include the cruise ship and a diameter of 100 feet surrounding the cruise ship. The cruise ship area (i.e., designated area D) may have receivers or network communication devices to receive signals from the wireless tracking device. The diameter may be 10-50 feet, 10-75 feet, or 10-100 feet. The diameter may be up to 200 feet, up to 300 feet, up to 500 feet or up to 1000 feet surrounding the cruise ship.

148 2450 175 10 127 For long-range communication devices, such as without limitation, an AIRTAG by APPLE Inc., a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) tracker, and a GSM-5G tracker may communicate with cellular, satellite and GSM communications service providers. The location signals may be sent to the serveror other designated computing device for access by and/or storage in the LIB. In one or more embodiments, the long-range communication devices may be configured to communicate using short-range communication protocols, as well. In this case, the wireless tracking devicemay communicate in the designated area Dusing short-range communication protocols using the remote network devicesor long-range communication protocols.

175 175 The wireless tracking devicemay be used to track its location while traveling on any mode of travel or next mode of travel using long-range or short-range communications depending on the wireless tracking deviceconfiguration.

136 The system may obtain lite passenger information by scanning a barcode or quick-response (QR) code associated with a boarding pass of the original flight. In some instances, the passenger's ticket may include information associated with the 10-digit license plate which may be retrieved from the passenger and placed on the baggage without the need to print a MK. For example, the passenger may receive a marker with an adhesive backing from an airline attendant at the time of checking in their baggage at the airport.

This marker may include the 10-digit license plate or other information. This marker can be used to identify the baggage by the passenger in the event of lost baggage, for example.

136 The system may include creating, by a printing device in communication with the at least one processor, a MKwith a marker identifier linking the passenger manifest record to the first luggage item when the originating paper bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or on the printed bag tag of first luggage item is one of damaged or missing; and populating the passenger manifest record with the marker identifier. The marker identifier may be a barcode, readable by a barcode scanning device, where the marker identifier includes one of OP-BTI or a new passenger tracking identifier.

122 116 118 120 122 116 118 120 122 116 118 120 122 116 118 120 The computing devicemay communicate with the scanner, imaging deviceand/or printing deviceusing near-field communications (NFC) protocols such as without limitations, BLUETOOTH. The computing devicemay communicate with the scanner, imaging deviceand/or printing deviceusing wireless fidelity (WI-FI) communications based on Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standards. The computing devicemay communicate with the scanner, imaging deviceand/or printing deviceusing ZIGBEE wireless technology compatible with IEEE 802.15, for example. The computing devicemay communicate with the scanner, imaging deviceand/or printing deviceusing long range communication protocols, short range communications protocols, cellular radio frequency protocols or other mobile radio frequency protocols.

116 122 122 122 118 116 100 148 108 110 128 148 108 110 128 In other embodiments, the scannermay be a software application stored on the computing deviceand programmed to interact with a video device or camera device incorporated into, integrated into, or connected via a cable to the computing device. In one or more embodiments, the computing device, imaging deviceand scannermay be a single device, such as a smart phone, tablet or other handheld computing device that is video-enabled, herein after referred to as a “smart communication device.” In one or more embodiments, the systemmay include a local computing device or a serverto communicate with the smart communication device(s) and travel information systems,and/or. The local computing device (i.e., server) communicates using wired or wireless communications with at least one smart communication device and/or to the travel information systems,or.

122 148 15 The computing deviceand/or servermay communicate with mobile communications deviceor other wired or wireless communication devices.

122 118 116 150 In one or more embodiments, the computing device, imaging device, scannerand RFID-Rmay be a single device, such as a smart phone, tablet or other handheld computing device that is video-enabled, also herein after referred to as a “smart communication device.”

118 116 150 The imaging device, scanner, and RFID-Rmay be electronic devices (i.e., acquiring devices) that acquire the barcode or other information associated with the IATA license plate, such as the 10-digit license plate. As should be understood from this disclosure, while the IATA standards use a 10-digit license plate, other license plate formats may be used with more or less digits. For example, the 10-digit license plate may be acquired by optical character recognition, computer vision machine learning algorithm, or other artificial intelligence algorithm that can recognize alphanumeric characters and convert the recognized characters to machine-encoded text, for example.

148 100 148 148 100 2450 100 148 107 2450 14 14 FIGS.C-E The acquiring devices may provide expanded B-Type messages outside of the airport infrastructure to serverof system, for example. However, to the extent some acquiring devices overlap the airport infrastructure, those acquiring devices may provide expanded B-Type messages from inside of the airport infrastructure to server, for example. By way of a non-limiting example, an expanded baggage processed message (BPM) may be generated by the acquiring devices, where the BPM includes at least a recycled IATA license plate and the passenger' name. The expanded BPM may include a unique identifier of the acquiring device and location data. The expanded BPM may be sent to serverassociated with systemso that the location data is updated in the LIBand/or expanded B-Type message described in relation to. While the expanded BPM is described, other expanded B-Type messages may be generated by systemand sent to server, those messages may be generated after the luggage item arrives at the DPand uses a recycled IATA license plate of the corresponding luggage item. For example, the expanded B-Type may be used to update the location data from an acquiring device in the LIBand/or to trigger a process described herein for delivery and handling of the luggage item independently of the passenger. The expanded B-Type messages may use IATA compatible coding format structures, in one or more embodiments. Alternately the expanded B-Type messages may use a coding format structure that is different from the IATA coding format but conveys similar message constructs.

100 124 138 116 118 114 118 138 150 124 116 112 1740 112 230 230 112 c A component of the systemmay include an optional luggage receiverto transport received luggage, such as on a conveyor belt. While the passenger luggagemoves on the conveyor belt, at least one scannerand at least one imaging devicemay scan or image the information representative of the O-BTI. In one or more embodiments, the imaging devicemay capture images of one or more passenger luggage. Additionally, the RFID-Rmay also read an RFID tag or NFC tag placed on the luggage receiver. In one or more embodiments, the scannermay scan a QR code-enabled bag tag. The RFID, NFC, and QR code-enabled bag tags may include certain personal information or PU. This personal information of the passenger and the information in the PNRmay be used to validate the personal information. The RFID tag or NFC tag should be compatible with IATA RP, for example. The PNRrepresents a storage location where an airline carrier may store the PNR of their passengers. The PNR numberis also known as a PNR locator. The PNR data may be located using at least the PNR number. By way of a non-limiting example, the PNR data may be stored in a passenger service system (PSS) or an order management system (OMS). However, over time the location of the storage devices for the PNR data may change. Hence, the system may use and update PNR access instruction according to each airline carrier to determine how to navigate to the PNR. The communications exchange may include Internet Protocols (IP), Extended Markup Language (XML) standards and XML messaging.

124 138 118 150 114 138 116 118 114 138 402 142 210 404 116 118 150 150 In other embodiments, the luggage receivermay include a designated pad or surface for the placement of a single passenger luggagewith a scanner, imaging deviceand/or RFID-Rin proximity to the pad to scan the O-BTIand/or capture images of a passenger luggage. The scannerand imaging devicemay be the same device but operated to look for and scan a barcode with the O-BTIin one process and in a second optional process, find a portion or a side of the body of the passenger luggageto capture identifying luggage features. In one or more embodiments, the scanned O-BTI data receiverA may be bypassed in the event a printed BTis not readable. In this instance, a user may directly enter the 10-digit license platewhich is then entered into the license plate parserA to identify the travel carrier identification and the passenger's bag number. The scanner, imaging deviceand RFID-Rmay be integrated into the same device, where the RFID-Rwill read the RFID tag or NFC tag if a printed bag tag is not present to develop personal information for a manifest.

138 150 138 102 In a process to capture identifying luggage features, such as using computer vision, a determination may be made that the passenger luggagedoes not include an original paper bag tag. In this instance, received information from the RFID-Rmay be used. In some instances, the passenger luggagemay have both an RFID tag or NFC tag and an original paper bag tag, as the original paper bag tag may include information associated with a travel carrier for a return leg local to home.

122 148 100 108 110 112 142 114 According to one or more embodiments, the computing deviceand/or serverof the systemmay generate a communication session with a travel information systemorto access the PNRbased on the scanned BTto obtain information representative of the original O-BTIwith an embedded code of a passenger's bag number, as will be described later.

122 148 100 108 110 112 142 142 According to one or more embodiments, the computing deviceand/or serverof the systemmay generate a communication session with a travel information systemorto access the PNRbased on the image of the BTto obtain passenger information that includes at least the PNR number captured from the BT, as will be described later.

108 110 132 132 134 128 134 148 122 148 128 126 The travel information systemormay generate a communication with passenger file datathat includes the return leg information of the passenger while maintaining the PII in the PNR confidential. The received passenger file datais assembled into a manifest fileor sent to the travel information systemwhere a manifest fileis created. In some instances, the servermay create a manifest file. One of the computing devicesand/or servermay communicate a manifest file to travel information systemof the lodging entity.

122 148 132 134 122 148 134 128 126 The computing deviceand/or servermay merge all the passenger file datainto a single manifest fileof checked-in passenger baggage and/or passengers. The computing deviceand/or serverwill then communicate a manifest fileto a travel information systemfor a lodging entity.

108 110 144 146 Departure Control System (DCS) may control the management of the check-in process for an airline travel carrier. The travel information systemormay include a check-in indicatorthat indicates that a passenger and/or their luggage item(s) is checked-in for travel within a particular window. In one or more embodiments, the travel carrier may include a check-in databasefor those passengers and/or their luggage that have been checked in for travel.

102 138 1 140 138 104 2 104 104 138 142 142 114 142 142 138 3 142 142 122 148 2 FIG.A An example scenario will now be described in detail. A passenger ready for a travel journey begins at homewhere the passenger luggageoriginates, for example, and travels on leg Lof travel journey. The passenger luggagemay travel with the passenger or via a luggage transport service to a first-mode travel carrier, which begins leg Lof travel. Assume the first-mode travel carrieris an airline. At the first-mode travel carrier, the passenger luggagereceives a BT, as shown in. The BTincludes printed information representative of the O-BTIcompatible with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) bag tag format. A BTmay be printed on paper or paper composite at the airline counter via an airline agent, a luggage transport service or by the passenger at a kiosk. The BTremains on the passenger luggage, as it travels on leg Lof travel, if used, as described later. In one or more embodiments, once the BTis printed a passenger may capture at least one image of the BTand/or a printed instrument, as described later, and communicate the at least one image to the computing deviceor server.

126 126 126 142 114 116 114 142 114 The passenger's travel journey will include a lodging entity. In this example, assume the lodging entityis a cruise ship. In one or more embodiments, prior to the passenger embarking on a cruise (i.e., lodging entity), the BTwith the O-BTIis scanned by scannerto digitize the printed representation of O-BTIor imaged by an imaging device to digitize the passenger's personal information printed on the BT. The passenger's personal information may include their unique PNR number. The passenger's personal information may include the passenger's name. The passenger's personal information may include O-BTIcreated by optical character recognition into a format that is machine-encoded text, for example.

2 3 3 126 106 3 126 3 2 107 In various scenarios, the passenger's travel journey may include leg Lof travel and leg Lof travel. For example, if there is only a first-mode travel carrier then leg Lof travel is omitted. In this instance, the first-mode travel carrier may provide a direct flight to a city or destination in proximity or local to the lodging entity. In other examples, a passenger's travel journey may include an intermediate travel carrierto provide for a leg Lof travel. For example, a passenger's travel journey may include at least one connecting flight or leg of travel to a city or destination in proximity to the lodging entity. The connecting leg of travel may be denoted as leg Lof travel, which begins at the end of leg Land ends at a DP.

2 FIG.A 200 142 200 200 200 200 202 204 200 206 200 206 208 illustrates a partial view of a conventional airline IATA bag tag(i.e., BT) of the prior art that is printed. The IATA bag tagis half of a bag tag. The IATA bag tagincludes two sides, which may be mirror images of each other so that ends of the IATA bag tagmay be affixed together. In the example illustrated, the IATA bag tagincludes an origination airport flight identifier, represented as three digits and a destination airport flight identifier, represented as three digits. The IATA bag tagincludes at least one barcode flight identifier. In this illustration, the IATA bag tagincludes a first barcode flight identifierhaving the bars of the barcode oriented in a first orientation and a second barcode flight identifierhaving the bars of the barcode oriented in a second orientation, different from the first orientation. The format of the bag tag may have slight changes from country to country and travel carrier to travel carrier.

200 In one or more embodiments, the passenger's name may be on IATA bag tag.

200 210 210 206 208 The IATA bag tagincludes a 10-digit license platethat is compatible with the IATA rules. The 10-digit license plate number includes a first integer in the range of 0-9 followed by a three-digit airline code followed by six digits of the license plate number. The last six digits of the license plate number correspond to a passenger bag number. The font of the digits can be hard to capture. The 10-digit license plateis adjacent to a first barcode flight identifierand/or a second barcode flight identifier.

The human-readable license plate will have either a two-character or a three-digit IATA carrier code. For example, it may be either “AA509795” or “001509795.” “AA” would be the two-character IATA code for American Airlines®, and “001” would be the three-digit IATA carrier code. Nevertheless, the barcode will always be the full ten digits.

206 206 206 210 The first barcode flight identifieris a label that hides personal information and flight information. For example, the first barcode flight identifieris coded to include the passenger's name and information about where the luggage should go (i.e., destination), and other information. The name of the airport of arrival, departure time, an IATA airport code of airport of arrival, airline code and flight number and the name of the passenger identified with the baggage (last name, first name). The first barcode flight identifieris a modified version of the license plate.

112 The bag tag number includes a two-letter airline code and six digits. The six digits represent the passenger's bag number. By using the passenger's bag number, a PNRmay be found by accessing a B-Type message that includes a PNR number, as will be described in more detail below. In one or more embodiments, the passenger's bag number also hides personal information of passenger.

152 152 The airline carriers generate and store one or more B-Type messages. The B-Type messagesmay include one or more of a baggage transfer message (BTM), baggage source message (BSM), baggage processed message (BPM), baggage unload message (BUM), baggage not seen message (BNS), baggage control message (BCM), baggage manifest message (BMM) and baggage request (BRQ). The bag tag number is part of the baggage messages. In one or more embodiments, the B-Type messages may include the passenger's name and PNR number. This allows other information to be accessed based on the bag tag number.

210 206 208 210 2 The license plateembedded in either first barcode flight identifieror second barcode flight identifieris known as an index number (IN) linking to a Baggage Source Message (BSM), sent by a carrier's departure control system (DCS), to the airport's baggage handling system where each digit in the license platehas a specific meaning. For example, the BSM contains flight details and passenger information from the second leg L.

210 206 208 112 The inventor has determined that the index number (IN) embedded in the license plate, first barcode flight identifieror second barcode flight identifiermay be used to access the PNRof a passenger.

2 FIG.A 2 FIG.D The example inis a self-tag airline bag tag printed by a passenger via a kiosk at an airport. All bag tags of an airline will include at least one IATA license plate format. However, each airline may arrange passenger/airline information on the printed bag tag differently, as will be seen in.

2 FIG.A 200 230 230 230 231 In, at the top of the bag tag, there may be a passenger name record (PNR) number. The presentation of the PNR numbermay vary from airline carrier to airline carrier. In this example, the PNR numberis preceded by a code term “PNR”, hereinafter referred to as “PNR indicator.” The PNR indicator is followed by a colon “:”. However, not all airlines use a PNR indicator that is as explicit as “PNR.” In such a case, the PNR number may need to be extracted based on expected information above, below and/or to the side of the PNR number for a particular airline carrier.

200 235 230 235 230 230 The bag tagmay also include the passenger's name. However, each airline may place the PNR numberand passenger's nameat different locations. Additionally, the PNR numbermay be preceded by or succeeded by characters that may be alphabetical, numerical or an alphanumerical sequence. Therefore, in some instances, it may be difficult to locate the PNR numberunless the airline carrier is known to obtain a general layout template.

235 200 200 212 212 The passenger's namemay appear, for example, at the bottom of the paper of the bag tag. However, in some instances, just before the end of the bag tag, at least one conventional airline tag markeris printed and can be removed before or after the bag tag is attached to the luggage item. The conventional airline tag markermay be given to the passenger, as a receipt with at least the IATA bag tag license plate and barcode located thereon.

235 235 The layout may place the passenger's namein proximity to the PNR number. The passenger's namemay appear above or below the PNR number. The name may appear in a format that includes last name/first name, where the names include only alphabetical characters.

2 FIG.B 212 212 214 216 217 218 220 illustrates a conventional airline tag marker. The airline tag markermay include the passenger's name, origination airport flight identifier, destination airport flight identifier, a 10-digit license plateand adjacent barcode flight identifier.

212 200 212 In one or more embodiments, the airline bag tag markeris affixed to an end of the conventional airline bag tagand can be detached for the passenger to keep. The airline tag markeris also printed on paper or a paper composite.

136 120 112 136 126 The MKprinted by printing devicemay include personal information for the PNRto populate the passenger's name. In some instances, MKmay include a temporary bag tag with an embedded code for the lodging entityor for a return leg.

212 The layout of the airline tag marker(i.e., a printed instrument) may vary slightly.

2 FIG.D 2 2 FIGS.A andD 200 200 200 illustrates a partial view of another conventional airline bag tag′ of the prior art. As can be seen from the illustration, the layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag′ of Southwest Airlines® is different from American Airlines®.are but two examples of many differing layouts. The IATA two-digit character code for Southwest Airlines® is “WN.” The IATA license plate number is “0526371073.” The three-digit numerical IATA code for Southwest Airlines® is “526.” Of particular note, the airline name, Southwest Airlines®, appears along an edge of the bag tag′ in a vertical orientation.

The airline code “WN,” the passenger's name, and the PNR number are set off in dashed boxes. The IATA license plate is also set off in dashed boxes, for illustrative purposes only. In this example, a PNR indicator is not provided before the PNR number “3UPQFT.” However, the PNR number is on a line with a characters that are represented in a date format such as without limitation, XX/XX/XXXX. Additionally, below the PNR number, the digits of IATA license plate. Therefore, the layout can be used to locate the digits of the PNR number in the absence of an explicit PNR indicator.

3 FIG.A 116 116 310 302 122 116 308 200 308 304 200 308 304 illustrates a scannerin accordance with an embodiment. The scannerincludes a software application (i.e., scanner application) loaded on a computing device, such as computing device. The user of the scannerwill direct the camera lens, in the direction of the printed bag tag. The camera lensis on a rear-side of the device that is opposite the side of the display screen. The processor of the computing device causes an image (input) representative of the printed bag tagcaptured by camera lensto be displayed on the display screen.

310 306 306 208 310 206 306 310 310 1 206 208 210 210 The scanner applicationmay provide a barcode window, denoted in dashed lines, to highlight and identify in the image the printed barcode or for directing the user in the direction of the barcode so that the barcode windowis placed to capture all of the bars of the second barcode flight identifier, for example. The scanner applicationmay alternately, or in addition to, scan the first barcode flight identifier. The barcode windowmay be automatically displayed with the initiation of the scanner application. The scanner applicationmay search for a linear orD barcode, for example, to convert the barcode of the first barcode flight identifieror the second barcode flight identifierand produce a series of digits representative of the license plate, for example. A person can see the license plate. However, entering each digit can be time consuming and susceptible to human error.

206 208 210 112 The first barcode flight identifieror the second barcode flight identifierassociated with the license platecan be used as an index number (IN) linking to the Baggage Source Message (BSM), for example, with passenger information, to locate and access the PNRfor the passenger and their return flight information.

138 112 In one or more embodiments, the scanner application may also be used to capture a QR code bag tag identifier on a QR code bag tag, affixed to the passenger luggage. This information may be used to validate the PNRor to access personal information.

3 FIG.B 2450 2450 Another example scenario will be described in relation toto acquire one or more of the PNR number, passenger's name and/or IATA license plate using image data. This information may be used to start the process of building the LIB, for example. This data can be used for a variety of tasks as described herein. Furthermore, as one leg of travel ends or one vehicle of travel ends, the LIBmay be migrated to the next vehicle of travel leaving expired vehicle of travel data behind.

3 FIG.B 1 FIG.A 118 340 200 118 15 118 100 340 304 304 118 311 302 122 15 311 122 311 15 311 15 100 148 illustrates an electronic acquiring device (i.e., imaging device) capturing an imageof the originating hardcopy bag tagin accordance with an embodiment. The imaging devicemay be integrated with a computing device (i.e., mobile communication device). The imaging devicemay be part of system. The image, in this instance, has a grey background in the display screen. However, the background in the display screenmay include other items and colors therein as would occur when capturing an image in the ambient background. The imaging deviceincludes a software application (i.e., application) loaded on a computing device, such as computing device, or mobile communication device. In one or more embodiments, the applicationrunning on computing devicemay be configured to perform optical character recognition (OCR). In one or more embodiments, the applicationrunning on mobile communication devicemay be configured to perform optical character recognition (OCR) and send both the at least one image and the DPI data record, the DPI data record is stored in the LIB (). The applicationmay be downloaded on mobile communication devicethrough systemsuch as by using server.

340 200 The image may include at least one imageof printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier of the originating hardcopy bag tagfrom different positions. The bag tag is long, and some printed text may not be easily viewable. The printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier may include printed BSM data such as without limitation, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number. In one or more embodiments, the license plate number may include a two-digit airline alphabet character code or a three-digit numerical code. The printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier may include a passenger name record (PNR) number. The printed information associated with an airline travel carrier may include an airline code or an airline name. The printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier may include the name of the passenger.

The printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier may include a unique identifier that is associated with a passenger itinerary or can be used to navigate to stored return flight information for a passenger on a designated travel carrier.

The printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier may include a unique identifier that is a linking index to the passenger's itinerary, or the passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline travel carrier. In one or more embodiments, the unique identifier is a Super PNR number. In multileg flights or multiple airline carriers, a Super PNR number may link all the PNRs of each leg together. Each carrier may have a different PNR for a leg of a flight.

200 200 The digital passenger information (DPI) data record linked to the airline travel carrier may include, for example, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a passenger name record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a name of the passenger, or any combination thereof. Examples of the printed passenger information in the image of the originating hardcopy bag tagare set off in dashed boxes. In one or more embodiments, once the airline name or airline code is verified, the system may not be required to find any more of the airline codes. The airline code or the airline name may be used to determine the airline's bag tag (BT) layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag, such as to expedite the finding of certain printed passenger information in the image.

148 112 In one or more embodiments, the DPI data record may include the passenger name record (PNR) number and an airline code or an airline name. In some examples, the DPI data record may include the passenger name record (PNR) number, an airline code or an airline name, and the name of the passenger. This DPI data record allows system or serverto directly access the PNR.

The DPI data record may include a digital luggage item record.

112 Although certain embodiments may scan the barcode of the IATA bag tag to obtain certain information, the use of the image can be used to obtain the 10-digit license plate and use a portion of the 10-digit license plate to derive the airline code, if necessary. As previously mentioned, bag tags or portions thereof can become damaged. Therefore, alternate mechanisms of deriving passenger/airline information in a handsfree and accurate manner are being proposed herein. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the image can be used to create the 10-digit IATA license plate so that a B-Type message may be accessed to get the PNR information that leads to the PNRof the passenger.

200 The originating hardcopy bag tagmay include space in the layout to print auxiliary information at the discretion of the airline carrier. The printed passenger information in the image and the resultant DPI data record may also include auxiliary information to navigate to a memory device that stores the passengers return flight information for the return flight.

311 360 100 148 118 100 15 The image may be captured in an applicationthat allows the passenger or other user to send, via send button, the image to the system(i.e., server). In one or more embodiments, imaging devicemay be part of systemor part of mobile communication device.

3 FIG.C 3 FIG.C 3 FIG.B 118 200 200 15 illustrates an electronic acquiring devicecapturing an image of an originating hardcopy bag tag′ in accordance with an embodiment. The embodiment ofto capture by an electronic acquiring device an image of an originating hardcopy bag tag′ is essentially the same as the embodiment described above in. Therefore, only the differences will be described. An image may be captured by mobile communication device.

200 304 The originating hardcopy bag tag′, shown in display screen, is an example originating hardcopy bag tag from another airline carrier with a different layout. The PNR number and the 10-digit IATA license plates may need to be located based on the layout for the particular airline, for example.

3 FIG.D Another example scenario will be described in relation toto acquire one or more of the PNR number, the passenger's name and/or the IATA license plate using image data from a marker.

3 FIG.D 2 FIG.C 118 304 212 311 212 illustrates an electronic acquiring device (i.e., imaging device) capturing an image of a printed instrument having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag in accordance with an embodiment. In this example, the printed instrument is displayed in display screenand includes the markerdescribed in relation to. In one or more embodiments, other printed instruments may be used, such as those printed by the passenger at home. In this example, the applicationmay optically recognize some or all of the characters of text on the marker, denoted by the dashed boxes.

112 In this instance, at least the 10-digit license plate may include the DPI data record. The DPI data record may include the passenger's name for additional verification for locating the PNR number in the B-Type messages and subsequent navigation to the PNR, for example, and creating a digital luggage item record.

3 FIG.E 200 212 136 An example shown inprovides delivery location data, such as when the IATA license plate, marker, MKor other barcoded identifier associated with the luggage item is scanned. The location data may be a current status of a room or cabin, for example.

3 FIG.E 302 360 360 3 355 350 In, computing deviceshows a displayed messagein accordance with an embodiment. The messagemay include text representative of a cabin number to deliver the luggage items for which the printed bag tag was scanned inA. The displayed message also includes a messagethat indicates that the cabin is ready. In one or more embodiments, the displayed message may include message, which represents the lodging entity's name. Still further, the displayed message may include the scanned bag number.

350 355 360 2790 2710 27 FIG. For other lodging entities, such as a hotel resort, the cabin number may be substituted with a room number, or building number, floor number and room number. In one or more embodiments, the messages,and/ormay be generated and communicated by the messaging systemvia serverof.

4 FIG.A 400 400 122 148 illustrates a block diagram of programming modulesA for checking in a luggage item or a luggage item and a passenger using an originating bag tag identifier for a return flight and generating a manifest for embarking on a leg of travel in accordance with an embodiment. The programming modulesA may be on the computing device, the serveror a combination thereof.

400 122 148 400 The one or more programming modulesA may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The computing deviceand/or servermay include at least one processor and/or hardware to execute instructions of the programming modulesA.

400 402 404 402 206 208 404 310 404 420 404 422 The programming modulesA may include a scanned O-BTI data receiverA and a license plate parserA. The scanned O-BTI data receiverA may include program instructions, which when executed cause receipt of 10 digits embedded in the captured barcode of first barcode flight identifieror second barcode flight identifier. The license plate parserA may include program instructions, which when executed, to parse the series of digits received from the scanner application. The license plate parserA may include program instructions, which when executed, track the digits to locate the travel carrier identification (ID) by the travel carrier ID locatorA. The license plate parserA may include program instructions, which when executed, track the digits, such as the last six digits, to locate the bag number by the bag number locatorA.

404 404 420 404 422 The license plate parserA may include program instructions, which when executed, to extract the first digit of the converted barcode. In this instance, it is the number 7. This digit may be discarded. Then, the license plate parserA may include program instructions, which when executed, extract the next three digits, by the travel carrier ID locatorA. In this case the next three digits include “001,” which correspond to the travel carrier ID. In this case, the travel carrier ID corresponds to American Airlines®. The license plate parserA may include program instructions, which when executed, to then extract the next six digits, which include “509795” using the bag number locatorA. These six digits correspond to the bag number for the passenger.

402 142 210 404 In one or more embodiments, the scanned O-BTI data receiverA may be bypassed in the event a printed BTis not readable. In this instance, a user may directly enter the 10-digit license platewhich is then received by the license plate parserA to identify the travel carrier identification and the passenger's bag number.

400 406 104 106 406 424 426 210 104 106 406 426 206 208 210 The programming modulesA may include program instructions, which when executed, cause a communications session generatorto communicate with at least one of the first-mode travel carrierand/or the intermediate travel carrier. The communications session generatormay include a travel carrier Internet Protocol (IP) address look-up databaseand PNR access instructions. The travel carrier ID of the license platemay be used to locate the predetermined instructions to generate an electronic communication packet to a server of the first-mode travel carrierand/or the intermediate travel carrierassociated with the travel carrier ID. The communications session generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, configured to also extract stored instructions for accessing the return leg information from the stored PNR access instructionsusing a digitally created passenger's bag number extracted from the first barcode flight identifieror second barcode flight identifierassociated with the license plate. The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) compatible with transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP), file transfer protocol (FTS), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS), secure socket layer (SSL), secure file transfer protocol (SFTP), and user datagram protocol (UDP).

210 112 In one or more embodiments, instructions may identify a link of the scanned license plateto the Baggage Source Message (BSM) with passenger information, to locate and access the PNRfor the passenger and their return flight information. The link may be, without limitation, a HTTP compatible link, in one or more embodiments.

122 408 102 112 100 During the communications session, the computing devicemay execute programming instructions of a passenger travel return leg retriever, where the return leg is a traveled path or portion of a journeyed path to return to home. For example, if the passenger is returning home using the same travel carrier as the original printed bag tag, the PNRwould include the return flight information. Otherwise, the return flight information may be marked as null by system.

400 410 118 138 122 148 138 411 411 411 411 410 411 411 411 411 212 136 The programming modulesA may include program instructions, which when executed, cause a luggage recognition moduleto recognize a luggage item for stored images. The image data of the imaging devicemay be processed by machine learning software to generate an image of passenger luggage. This image may be stored in a database for a passenger luggage recognition process. In some instances, a passenger's luggage may need to be found or identified. The computing deviceor servermay store an image of the passenger luggagethat can be later retrieved. Machine learning algorithms may then be used to recognize luggage and match a passenger with their luggage. The image data of the luggage item may be stored as luggage feature dataA. The luggage feature dataA may also include the barcode of the IATA license plate or features of the luggage item itself. The features may include color, texture, shape, brand, and other distinguishing features of the luggage item body. The luggage feature dataA may be used to unlock access to certain information in the luggage item manifest record. For example, the luggage feature dataA may be needed to access return flight information for check-in of the luggage item. The luggage recognition modulemay include program instructions, which when executed, to store image data of the passenger as passenger biometric dataB linked to the luggage item manifest record. The passenger biometric dataB may be used to unlock access to certain information in the luggage item manifest record. For example, the passenger biometric dataB may provide access to return flight information for check-in of the luggage item. In one or more embodiments, the passenger biometric dataB may be validated when the originating hardcopy bag tag, the markerand/or MKare missing or damaged.

212 136 212 212 In a scenario, a luggage item may have only one of the originating hardcopy bag tag, markeror MK. By way of a non-limiting example, the markermay be the only tag on the luggage item and does not have the passenger's name printed thereon. For this example, although the markeris on the luggage item, the passenger may need to be validated if the passenger's name is not present on the airline's originally issued printed instrument to unlock the luggage item manifest record and subsequent check-in of the luggage item.

For one or more embodiments, although the originating hardcopy bag tag is on the luggage item, the passenger may need to be validated if the passenger's name is not present on the airline's originating hardcopy bag tag to unlock the luggage item manifest record and subsequent check-in of the luggage item.

122 148 100 The computing deviceor servermay use machine learning algorithms to identify whether a particular luggage item has been processed by one or more components of the system.

The captured image data of the luggage item may be used to unlock a luggage item manifest record such as for check-in, in some instances.

400 412 412 136 120 138 136 The programming modulesA may include a marker generator. The marker generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, generate a barcode for use in the format of the MKthat can be printed by printing deviceand affixed on the passenger luggage. As discussed previously, the MKmay be used when the original bag tag or airline marker are not available or unscannable, such as due to damage.

400 414 416 418 The programming modulesA may include a passenger manifest record generator, a return leg manifest generator, and a manifest communicator. The passenger manifest created from the non-discarded originally printed bag tag may be used to reconcile passengers arriving at a lodging entity and determine room or cabin numbers. The non-discarded printed bag tag populated in the manifest is used to bring a passenger's baggage to their room and/or lodging entity, for example, without the need for generating a temporary valet tag. The non-discarded printed bag tag may be used also for departures of the passengers from the lodging entity to return home for example, without the need to print yet another temporary valet tag.

414 428 112 138 100 The passenger manifest record generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, store in one or more files passenger informationand related PNRfor those passengers with passenger luggagescanned by system. The passenger information may include the first name, middle name or initial, last name and contact information of the passenger. For example, the contact information may also include the passenger's address. The passenger information may include private information (PII).

100 126 107 138 126 138 126 428 104 126 428 412 414 412 The components of systemmay store a list of passengers for one or more lodging entitieslocal to the DPso that passenger luggagefor passengers not intended to travel via the lodging entitywill not be commingled with the passenger luggagefor lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, the passenger informationmay include passenger information associated with a pre-paid service with a third-party service provider, the first-mode travel carrieror the lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, the files of passenger informationmay include assigned cabin numbers for the passenger. Thus, the marker generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, to communicate with the passenger manifest record generatorto obtain information such as a cabin number and a passenger's name to format and populate fields of the marker printed by the marker generator.

412 The marker generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, cause printing of a passenger's name, a room number, a barcode of the IATA license plate of the originating hardcopy bag tag and/or the related 10-digit IATA license plate. The IATA license plate or the IATA barcode of the originating hardcopy bag tag may be used as a primary key to the luggage item's information for its own travel experience including its check-in for the return flight.

416 112 416 The return leg manifest generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, to extract the information of the PNRthat includes return leg travel information, including without limitation, the travel carrier of the return leg mode of travel, the departure time of the return leg mode of travel, a flight number, and/or an estimated number of luggage bags that need to be checked in for the return leg home. The return leg manifest generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, populate the return leg travel information into corresponding data fields of the manifest file.

4 FIG.B 400 400 illustrates a block diagram of programming modulesB for checking in a luggage item or a luggage item and passenger using digitized originating passenger information associated with a first-mode travel carrier on an originating hardcopy printed bag tag and generating a manifest for embarking on a leg of travel in accordance with an embodiment. The programming modulesB may include program instructions, which when executed creates the DPI data record for the digital luggage item record.

4 4 FIGS.A andB 400 122 148 are similar. Therefore, only the differences will be described in detail. The programming modulesB may be on the computing device, the serveror a combination thereof.

400 122 148 400 400 15 The one or more programming modulesB may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The computing deviceand/or servermay include at least one processor and/or hardware to execute instructions of the programming modulesB. One or more of the programming modulesB related to the creation of the machine-encoded text from the image of the bag tag may be included in software, firmware, hardware or a combination thereof in the mobile communication device.

400 402 402 400 404 404 420 420 432 420 The programming modulesB may include image data receiverA. The image data receiverA may include program instructions, which when executed cause receipt of an image of the originating hardcopy bag tag or a portion thereof or a printed instrument having at least a portion of the printed information from the originating hardcopy bag tag. The programming modulesB may include a passenger/airline information parserB. In one or more embodiments, the passenger/airline information parserB may include program instructions, which when executed, optically recognize and convert the text characters in the image to searchable text sequences (i.e., machine-encoded text) to locate the travel carrier code and/or name by the travel carrier locatorB. The travel carrier locatorB may include program instructions, which when executed, access the airline code list databaseto determine the available airline codes and the matched airline names. Alternately, if the airline name is found, the airline two-digit alphabetic code or the three-digit numerical code may be found as well to validate the airline carrier associated with the originating hardcopy bag tag. The travel carrier locatorB may include program instructions, which when executed, find one airline code and validate with the finding of an airline name or another airline code at expected locations or in the license plate.

404 The passenger/airline information parserB may include program instructions, which when executed, cause the look-up of the BT layout in the BT layout database based on the located airline code and/or airline name. In one or more embodiments, the BT layout may indicate formats for the PNR number including whether a PNR indicator would be present. The BT layout may identify lines of text and the location of the lines and expected text on such lines. In one or more embodiments, the BT layout may identify text constraints, such as the presentation of the passenger's name with the last name followed by the first name and separated by a “/” (i.e., forward slash). These are just examples of layout possibilities as each airline can present certain information at their own discretion.

404 421 The passenger/airline information parserB may include program instructions, which when executed, optically recognize and convert the text characters in the image to searchable text sequences (i.e., machine-encoded text) to locate the passenger's name by the passenger name locatorB.

404 422 The passenger/airline information parserB may include program instructions, which when executed, optically recognize and convert the text characters in the image to searchable text sequences (i.e., machine-encoded text) to locate the PNR number by the PNR number locatorB.

404 The passenger/airline information parserB may include program instructions, which when executed, optically recognize and convert the text characters in the image to searchable text sequences (i.e., machine-encoded text) to locate the IATA license plate. Currently, the IATA license plate is 10-digits and may be expanded over time. From the IATA license plate, the travel carrier code may be determined, if necessary.

400 406 104 106 406 424 426 210 104 106 406 426 112 The programming modulesB may include program instructions, which when executed cause a communications session generatorto communicate with at least one of the first-mode travel carrierand/or the intermediate travel carrier. The communications session generatormay include a travel carrier Internet Protocol (IP) address look-up databaseand PNR access instructions. The travel carrier ID of the license platemay be used to locate the predetermined instructions to generate an electronic communication packet to a server of the first-mode travel carrierand/or the intermediate travel carrierassociated with the travel carrier ID. The communications session generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, configured to also extract stored instructions for accessing the return leg information from the stored PNR access instructionsusing a DPI data record. If the DPI data record does not include the PNR number from the originating hardcopy bag tag, then the license plate may be used to access the PNR number in a B-Type message, where the B-Type message includes the license plate as a linking index to a PNR number (locator). On the other hand, if the DPI data record includes the PNR number from the originating hardcopy bag tag and the airline name or airline code, the instruction for accessing the PNRmay be looked up without the need to use a B-Type message to obtain the PNR number.

The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) compatible with the transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP), the file transfer protocol (FTS), the hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), the hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS), the secure socket layer (SSL), the secure file transfer protocol (SFTP), and the user datagram protocol (UDP).

400 400 400 400 400 In one or more embodiments, the programming modules ofA andB overlap. This may occur in instances when certain data is no longer readable by scanning a barcode to access the luggage item data record in a luggage manifest but can be obtained by optical character recognition, for example. Programming modulesA,B andC may be combined in one or more embodiments.

The manifest file includes a conduit for checking in the luggage items of the plurality of passengers with the designated return travel carriers. The conduit may include a graphical user interface to remotely check-in each passenger leaving the lodging entity within a designated window prior to a return flight. In one or more embodiments, the passenger manifest record may include the digital BTI data, the DPI data record and/or the data for check-in of luggage or a passenger for a return leg of travel with a designated return travel carrier for a return flight from the accessed PNR. The passenger manifest record may include other information such as the passenger's name and the airline code or airline name, for example. The passenger manifest record may include the DPI data record.

418 128 126 418 128 The manifest communicatormay include program instructions, which when executed, are configured to establish a communication session with the travel information systemassociated with the lodging entity. The manifest communicatormay have different instructions for each travel information systemof a plurality of cruise ship carriers. The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein.

1 FIG.A 100 2450 As described in relation to, certain data may be marked as “PENDING.” However, once an IATA barcode is scanned associated with the license plate by an acquiring device or received by an RFID receiver/NFC receiver associated with or linked to system, the LIBmay be activated for a registered luggage item.

4 FIG.C 400 400 122 148 400 400 400 illustrates a block diagram of programming modulesC for checking in baggage of a passenger, generating a manifest for embarking on a leg of travel, and generating an expanded B-Type message in accordance with an embodiment. The programming modulesC may be on the computing device, the serveror a combination thereof. Insofar as programming modulesC are similar to programming modulesA orB, some repeated discussion may be omitted.

400 402 404 402 206 208 404 310 404 420 404 422 The programming modulesC may include a scanned O-BTI data receiverC and a license plate parserC. The scanned O-BTI data receiverC may include program instructions, which when executed cause receipt of 10 digits embedded in the captured barcode of first barcode flight identifieror second barcode flight identifier. The license plate parserC may include program instructions, which when executed, parse the series of digits received from the scanner application. The license plate parserC may include program instructions, which when executed, track the digits to locate the travel carrier identification (ID) by the travel carrier ID locatorC. The license plate parserC may include program instructions, which when executed, track the digits, such as the last six digits, to locate the bag number by the bag number locatorC.

404 404 420 404 422 The license plate parserC may include program instructions, which when executed, extract the first digit of the converted barcode. In this instance, it is the number 7. This digit may be discarded. Then, the license plate parserC may include program instructions, which when executed, extract the next three digits, by the travel carrier ID locatorC. In this case the next three digits include “001,” which corresponds to the travel carrier ID. In this case, the travel carrier ID corresponds to American Airline®. The license plate parserC may include program instructions, which when executed, to then extract the next six digits, which include “509795” using the bag number locatorC. These six digits correspond to the bag number for the passenger.

402 142 210 404 In one or more embodiments, the scanned O-BTI data receiverC may be bypassed in the event a printed BTis not readable. In this instance, a user may directly enter the 10-digit license platewhich is then received by the license plate parserC to identify the travel carrier identification and the passenger's bag number.

400 406 104 106 406 424 426 210 104 106 406 426 206 208 210 The programming modulesC may include program instructions, which when executed, cause a communications session generatorto communicate with at least one of the first-mode travel carrierand/or the intermediate travel carrier. The communications session generatormay include a travel carrier Internet Protocol (IP) address look-up databaseand PNR access instructions. The travel carrier ID of the license platemay be used to locate the predetermined instructions to generate an electronic communication packet to a server of the first-mode travel carrierand/or the intermediate travel carrierassociated with the travel carrier ID. The communications session generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, configure to also extract stored instructions for accessing the return leg information from the stored PNR access instructionsusing a digitally created passenger's bag number extracted from the first barcode flight identifieror second barcode flight identifierassociated with the license plate. The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein.

210 112 In one or more embodiments, instructions may identify a link of the scanned license plateto the Baggage Source Message (BSM) with passenger information, to locate and access the PNRfor the passenger and their return flight information. The link may be, without limitation, a HTTP compatible link, in one or more embodiments. Each airline may format their BSM or other B-Type message with additional fields of data. However, the B-Type message is compatible with the IATA B-Type codes.

122 408 102 112 100 During the communications session, the computing devicemay execute programming instructions of a passenger travel return leg retriever, where the return leg is a traveled path or portion of a journeyed path to return home. For example, if the passenger is returning home using the same travel carrier as the original printed bag tag, the PNRwould include the return flight information. Otherwise, the return flight information may be marked as null by system.

400 410 118 138 122 148 138 The programming modulesC may include program instructions, which when executed cause a passenger luggage recognition moduleto recognize luggage items from at least one image of the luggage. The image data of the imaging deviceor other camera-enabled device may be processed by machine learning software to generate an image of passenger luggage. This image may be stored in a database for a passenger luggage recognition process. In some instances, a passenger's luggage may need to be found or identified. The computing deviceor servermay store an image of the passenger luggagethat can be later retrieved. Machine learning algorithms may then be used to recognize luggage and match a passenger with their luggage.one or more embodiments.

122 148 100 The computing deviceor servermay use machine learning algorithms to identify whether a particular luggage item has been processed by one or more components of the system.

400 412 412 136 120 138 136 The programming modulesC may include a marker generator. The marker generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, generate a barcode for use in the format of the MKthat can be printed by printing deviceand affixed on the passenger luggage. As discussed previously, the MKmay be used when the original bag tag or airline marker are not available or unscannable, such as due to damage.

412 100 The marker generator, which when executed includes instructions for associating a unique identifier of a marker instrument for association with a luggage item without a bag tag or marker or a luggage item with a bag tag or marker without a passenger's name. The marker instrument may be a paper tag or an electronic tag that may be used on a temporary basis to associate a unique identifier to a luggage item. The intended operation of systemis to maintain the originating bag tag, marker, or bingo marker on the luggage item. However, these items made of paper may become damaged or missing. In this instance, the scan used to capture an IATA bag tag may be overridden to scan a replacement unique identifier to replace an absent IATA bag tag.

2450 2450 The LIBmay be generated using this replacement or temporary unique identifier. In some instances, the unique identifier may be used in a vehicle of travel to create a LIBfor the luggage item when the luggage item does not have any other legs of travel. The system within a lodging entity may use the unique identifier as a primary key.

400 414 416 418 The programming modulesC may include a passenger manifest record generator, a return leg manifest generator, and manifest communicator. The passenger manifest created from the non-discarded originally printed bag tag may be used to reconcile passengers arriving at a lodging entity and determine room or cabin numbers. The non-discarded printed bag tag populated in the manifest is used to bring a passenger's baggage to their room and/or lodging entity, for example, without the need for generating a temporary valet tag. The non-discarded printed bag tag may be used also for departures of the passengers from the lodging entity to return home for example, without the need to print yet another temporary valet tag.

414 428 112 138 100 The passenger manifest record generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, store in one or more files of passenger informationand related PNRfor those passengers with passenger luggagescanned by system. The passenger information may include the first name, middle name or initial, last name and contact information of the passenger. For example, the contact information may also include the passenger's address. The passenger information may include private information such as PII. However, the PII in a designated manifest may be secured and not shared. The IATA license plate, the passenger's name (optional) and the PNR number may be used as links to maintain the PII private.

100 126 107 138 126 138 126 428 104 126 428 412 414 412 The components of systemmay store a list of passengers for one or more lodging entitylocal to the destination point DPso that passenger luggagefor passengers not intended to travel via the lodging entitywill not be commingled with passenger luggagefor lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, passenger informationmay include information associated with a pre-paid service with a third-party service provider, the first-mode travel carriersor the lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, passenger informationmay include assigned cabin numbers for the passenger. Thus, the marker generatormay communicate with the passenger manifest record generatorto obtain information such as a cabin number and a passenger's name to format and populate fields of the marker printed by the marker generator.

412 2670 136 The marker generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, cause generation of a marker that indicates whether the luggage item can bypass security screening for the next mode of travel. The instructions may also produce information about the next mode of travel such as the room number or cabin number and/or other luggage item delivery information. In an alternate embodiment, if the luggage item does not pass security screening process by the ISSS, the MKwould indicate the failure of the screening and the need to send the luggage item to the next mode of travel security screening.

416 112 416 The return leg manifest generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, extract information of the PNRthat includes return leg travel information, including without limitation, the travel carrier of the return leg mode of travel, the departure time of the return leg mode of travel, a flight number, and/or an estimated number of luggage bags that need to be checked in for the return leg home. The return leg manifest generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, populate return leg travel information into corresponding data fields of the manifest file.

The manifest file may include a conduit for check-in of the baggage of a plurality of passengers with the designated return travel carrier. The conduit may include a graphical user interface to remotely check-in each luggage item of a passenger leaving the lodging entity within a designated window prior to a return flight. In one or more embodiments, the passenger manifest record includes the digital BTI data, the PNR number and the data for check-in the passenger or their luggage item for a return leg of travel with a designated return travel carrier.

148 2710 In one or more embodiments, serverand servermay include conduits to check-in luggage of the passenger with at least an airline carrier for a return flight.

418 128 126 418 128 The manifest communicatormay include program instructions, which when executed, are configured to establish a communication session with travel information systemassociated with the lodging entity. The manifest communicatormay have different instructions for each travel information systemof a plurality of cruise ship carriers. The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein.

400 430 400 409 409 409 409 409 14 FIG.C The programming modulesC may include an expanded B-Type message generator. An example expanded B-Type message is shown in, as will be described in detail later. The programming modulesC may include an originating IATA bag tag recyclerA and return flight originating IATA bag tag recyclerB. The return flight originating IATA bag tag recyclerB may include program instructions, which when executed, are configured to initiate expansion of the B-Type message created for the return flight. The originating IATA bag tag recyclerA may include program instructions, which when executed, are configured to initiate expansion of the B-Type message for the originating flight. Once the return flight check-in baggage process starts, for example, the recycling by the originating IATA bag recyclerA needs to be terminated.

400 431 14 FIG.B The programming modulesmay include program instructions, which when executed, causes a simulated B-Type message generatorto generate a simulated B-Type message for a return flight as shown and described in relation toor for an originating flight. According to one or more embodiments, the expanded B-Type message may include at least three data fields from the airline's B-Type message. The first field includes the field having the IATA bag tag number. The second field may include the passenger's name. The third field may include the PNR. These fields allow the return flight information to be obtained at any time using the originating IATA bag tag number including any updates. In one or more embodiments, if the IATA bag tag number is not available when the simulated B-Type message is generated, a temporary unique identifier is used in the field or line with the preface “.N/” used for the sequence of digits representative of the bag tag number. In the example of the originating flight, the field or line with the preface “.N/” may include a temporary unique identifier until an IATA bag tag number can be obtained from the DCS of the airline or the simulated DCS that creates an IATA bag tag number remote from the airline or airport infrastructure. In one or more embodiments, the simulated DCS may have its own IATA two character or digit code.

15 FIG. 1 FIG.B 136 The simulated B-Type message or simulated BSM may be used as a placeholder to prepopulate the BSM or other B-Type message for checking in luggage item that assigns the IATA license plate number. The simulated BSM may be used to print a marker for a luggage item, as will be described in relation to. In one or more embodiments, a marker (i.e., MK) needs to be printed because the originating bag tag has been damaged or missing. A simulated BSM may be created to create a marker MK() to be affixed to the luggage item in the event the luggage item has no bag tag associated with it, such as may be required for a new luggage item.

400 400 431 14 FIG.B Programming modulesA andB may also have program instructions, which when executed, cause a simulated B-Type message generatorto generate a simulated B-Type message for a return flight as shown and described in relation toor for an originating flight.

400 433 The programming modulesC may include program instructions, which when executed, cause a multi-mode reservation synchronizerto synchronize reservations of a travel journey for a luggage item or the passenger and their luggage item. Each passenger's journey to a lodging entity such as a resort or cruise ship may include air travel and other modes of travel selected from bus travel carriers, train travel carriers, additional air travel carriers, and ferry travel carriers. Ferries may include lodging accommodations to travel from one port to another port. These ports may be in different countries. This type of travel is different from a cruise where the passenger leaves from and returns to the same port.

The passenger's journey may include multi-mode reservations with multiple lodging entity stays across multiple states or multiple countries. The original bag tag number from a printed airline license plate and/or associated RF unique code representative of the original bag tag number linked to the luggage item may be used as a primary key for logging and tracking all travel reservations and updates thereto accessible through a recycled non-discarded machine-readable bag tag.

2700 2714 2714 100 2700 3100 2714 Systemmay include a universal travel passenger itinerary. The stored data of the universal travel passenger itinerarymay change before embarking on the first leg of travel, after embarking on the first leg of travel and arriving at the destination point, or before embarking on any leg of travel on a return path to journey home. The systems,and/ormay synchronize travel modes by updating the reservation's information data with updates in the universal travel passenger itineraryand communicating the updates to the passenger.

148 2710 2714 In one or more embodiments, prior to the start of a leg of travel, the serverormay contact any of the reservation systems associated with the universal travel passenger itineraryto obtain any changes to flight information, bus information, train information or lodging information. The expanded B-Type message may be updated.

400 434 The programming modulesC may include program instructions, which when executed, cause a baggage trackerto track locations of a luggage item. The original IATA bag tag is used as a recycled machine-readable tag that stays on the luggage item without the need for any other tag on the luggage item unless the original IATA bag tag is damaged or missing until the passenger disembarks from a lodging entity and departs for a return path home, for example. When the recycled unique identifier of the non-discarded machine-readable bag tag is acquired such as by scanning or via a RF communication device, a location code or geotag may be appended to the generated communication stream of the image data and logged with the data. This allows the locations that the luggage item has moved through to be tracked by the acquiring devices.

2450 The LIBand the expanded B-Type message described herein are examples of mechanisms to provide an electronic brain to a luggage item that is linked to a passenger. The expanded B-Type message provides an example coding scheme. Although airlines allow luggage items to be checked in for an air flight at off-airport locations (i.e., cruise ship and train station) using a remote check-in procedure, the inventor has determined that an originating printed bag tag, such as after a flight, can be used as a marker and conduit to allow luggage to be checked in for a return flight check-in. The remote check-in process at off-airport locations requires robust workstations and printers. These printers that are capable of printing IATA bag tags at off-airport locations are very costly and can be overloaded at times. The inventor has determined that recycling the originating IATA printed bag tag and related unique identifier to access return flight information such as within a regulated check-in window and printing the return flight bag tag at a designated printing location remote from a cruise ship, expedites the baggage check-in process and eliminates the need for a valet tag.

By way of a non-limiting example, the passenger's luggage leaving a cruise ship needs to be processed in 24 or 48 hours. This can require printing boarding passes, valet tags and bag tags or any combination thereof. However, the cruise ship can have thousands of passengers each with multiple luggage items. One attempt to solve this logistical challenge was a “Detachable, Single Page Printable Boarding Pass And Tag Identifier Document” shown in US Design Patent No. D862590, issued Oct. 8, 2019. This document allowed the boarding pass and bag tags to be printed on a single document. The document had perforations to remove and an adhesive to affix the bag tags to the luggage item. However, such an advancement to save human resources, paper resources, and other processing infrastructure was still insufficient to process thousands of passengers disembarking a cruise ship or other high-volume resorts much less address delays due to equipment malfunctions or other computer technology glitches caused by wireless communication interruptions, inclement weather conditions, and more. Moreover, printing bag tags on cruise ships still required real estate on a ship, for example, which can otherwise be used for other revenue.

In one or more embodiments, a passenger may travel on a different path from their luggage item(s) during part of their journey. Current processes do not provide seamless baggage identification through your travel experience. This can lead to cumbersome and costly travel experiences for all concerned parties in the travel and destination network. For example, this can cause lost or delayed arrival of luggage or a reduction in seamless travel experience for the baggage due to changes in an itinerary. Delayed arrival to a departing cruise ship or loss of luggage on a trip can be devastating to the passenger.

The inventor has determined the originating printed bag tag affixed to the luggage item, should remain on the luggage item, and be recycled until the luggage item is checked in for the return flight. This preserves the originating IATA bag tag number on an already printed machine-readable instrument that is tied to a verified passenger's identity.

100 2700 Before the passenger lands from their originating flight, systemormay initiate a recycling process to recycle the originating IATA bag tag number to a universal bag tag unique identifier for use outside of the airport infrastructure. The transition to the universal bag tag unique identifier is seamless and may be used at off-airport locations from the moment baggage of the passenger is off-loaded from an airplane of the first-mode travel carrier or the intermediate travel carrier and leaves the custody of the airport infrastructure without the need for the passenger to be present.

The (recycled) originating IATA bag tag number may be acquired at an off-airport location by an acquiring device to create a digital data record for use as a primary key or unique identifier and to log the location and time stamp of any mode of travel of the baggage or location along a journey. This may trigger an update in information to locate the luggage item without the need for the passenger to be present. The acquiring device (i.e., scanning device, mobile communication device, video-enabled computing device, RF communication device) may provide a geolocation code with a communication with the image data acquired by the acquiring device or a RF communication from a RF communication device.

400 436 436 2700 The programming modulesC may include program instructions, which when executed, cause a lodging coordinatorto determine whether any changes are made to a lodging reservation such as a room or cabin number and to notify the passenger or bag handler of any reservation changes prior to dropping off the luggage. In one or more embodiments, the room or cabin number may not be cleaned/ready. Once the room or cabin number is ready, the expanded B-Type message is updated with the current status. The lodging coordinatormay include program instructions, which when executed, are configured to communicate with or receive communications from the smart baggage travel system. By way of a non-limiting example, the expanded B-Type message may be expanded by links to the reservation data of a passenger's itinerary.

400 438 438 438 2700 27 FIG. The programming modulesC may include a smart baggage travel communicator. When information associated with the expanded B-Type message changes, the smart baggage travel communicatormay include program instructions, which when executed, are configured to communicate any updated information to a computing device of one of a baggage handler and passenger. The computing device may be a mobile communication device or an acquiring device. The details of the communications will become more evident in the description below. The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein. The smart baggage travel communicatormay communicate with the smart baggage travel systemof, described later. The communication instructions may identify the information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) compatible with transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP), file transfer protocol (FTS), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS), secure socket layer (SSL), secure file transfer protocol (SFTP), and user datagram protocol (UDP).

The methods described herein below depict a particular sequence of operations. The sequence may be altered without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, some of the operations depicted may be performed in parallel or in a different sequence that does not materially affect the function of the methods. In other examples, different components of an example device or system that implements the methods may perform functions at substantially the same time or in a specific sequence.

5 FIG. 500 illustrates a methodfor checking in a luggage item, a passenger or a passenger and a luggage item in accordance with an embodiment. In one or more embodiments, a passenger may be required to be checked in first followed by the luggage item. In one or more embodiments, the passenger can be required to be checked in first with a boarding pass printed or received at a personal computing device (i.e., mobile computing device) and then followed by checking in the luggage item. The DCS or other designated system may provide sequence numbers that are used to trigger each step of a check-in process.

500 501 501 10 FIG.A 10 FIG.B The methodmay include, at block, generating a passenger manifest record using a PNR number to access a passenger's PNR. An example process to perform this function is described in. In one or more embodiments,may be performed, at block.

500 500 107 The methodcreates a digital license plate number from a printed BT for use in obtaining return flight information, for example. In one or more embodiments, methodbegins after completion of a leg of travel of a passenger that has arrived at the DP.

10 FIG.A 1 FIG.A 10 FIG.A 1001 1002 1001 1004 1001 illustrates a flowchart of a methodA for generating return flight information from a PNR using a PNR number captured from scanned data in accordance with an embodiment, such as obtained in. With reference to, in blockA, methodA begins after completion of a leg of travel of a passenger with a first-mode travel carrier. In blockA, the methodA includes acquiring an originating bag tag identifier, such as the 10-digit license plate, for example. The process of acquiring the originating bag tag identifier may include scanning, with a scanner, an originating bag tag identifier (O-BTI) on a printed bag tag of a first luggage item to create scanned or digital BTI data, the printed O-BTI being linked to a first-mode travel carrier. By way of a non-limiting example, the scanner may be a barcode scanner.

In some instances, the acquiring of the originating bag tag identifier may include receiving an RFID signal including information representative of the originating bag tag identifier. In other embodiments, acquiring the 10-digit license plate may include scanning an airline marker with adhesive backing which may be on or attached to the baggage. In some cases, the airline marker with adhesive backing is part of the original boarding pass received from the airline attendant at the time of check-in for an original flight.

In summary, assume that the first-mode travel carrier is an airline carrier. Then the electronic acquiring, by at least one electronic acquiring device, may include at least one of: i) scanning, by a barcode scanner, the OP-BTI on a printed paper bag tag from the airline carrier that is attached to the first luggage item of the passenger; ii) scanning, by the barcode scanner, the OP-BTI on a printed marker from the airline that is attached to the first luggage item; iii) reading or acquiring, by a RFID reader, RFID information associated with the OP-BTI and iv) receiving, by a radio-frequency communication, radio communications that include the OP-BTI.

1006 1001 1006 1006 In blockA, the methodA may include extracting, by at least one processor, a luggage item's IATA license plate from the scanned O-BTI data. The blockA may include extracting a travel carrier code from the scanned or digital BTI data. In one or more embodiments, the blockA may include, extracting the printed text by optically recognizing the printed text and converting the text into a searchable text format to search for and locate the printed passenger information and create a DPI data record therefrom.

1008 1001 In blockA, the methodA may include accessing, by the at least one processor, a passenger name record (PNR) from a second processor associated with the first-mode travel carrier, based on the digitally created O-BTI or the digitally created 10-digit license plate of the passenger's luggage item.

1010 1001 112 112 In blockA, methodA may include autonomously creating, by the at least one processor, a luggage item manifest record or a passenger manifest record from the accessed PNR, for a return leg of travel of the luggage item or passenger and luggage item with a designated return airline travel carrier. The passenger manifest record may include the digital BTI data and the PNR, with the data to check-in the passenger or their luggage item for a return leg of travel with a designated return travel carrier. The passenger manifest record may be populated with travel carrier codes embedded in scanned O-BTI or the accessed PNR. The passenger manifest record may be associated with digital BTI data with the passenger for tracking and handling of the luggage items of the passenger before and after the passenger's stay with a high-volume lodging entity. For example, a high-volume lodging entity may be located on a Disney™ property or other resort destination with lodging accommodations.

The passenger manifest record may have different information than the luggage item manifest record. For example, in an embodiment, if a passenger is going on a cruise ship but arrives a day earlier and has a rental car. In this scenario, the passenger may arrive at a hotel for one night without the need for their checked in luggage item. The luggage item manifest may not require information about the rental car. Furthermore, the luggage item may travel independently from the passenger and skip travel to the hotel and go directly to the cruise ship.

512 500 501 In block, the methodmay include repeating blockfor a plurality of luggage items and/or passengers embarking on a leg of travel with a lodging entity.

500 514 The methodmay include setting the originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) as luggage item primary key (i.e., 10-digit license plate) for luggage item handling and tracking, at block.

500 516 516 100 The methodmay include creating a simulated Baggage Source Message (BSM) that is populated with the a digital BTI data record and/or machine-encoded text from the originated hardcopy bag tag for each passenger of the plurality of passengers added to the manifest, at block. Blockmay be performed when the luggage item and/or passenger cannot be checked in for the return flight. For example, a passenger may disembark a cruise ship and stay at a nearby lodging entity. The systemmay create a simulated BSM as a place holder for checking in the luggage item and/or passenger for their return flight within the regulation check-in window.

500 518 The methodmay include electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquiring device, an originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or printed on the originating hardcopy bag tag from the airline travel carrier that is on the luggage item of the passenger to create the digital BTI data record within a check-in window to check-in the luggage item or passenger and luggage item, at block. In one or more embodiments, the simulated BSM may be accessed to retrieve information.

518 136 212 15 FIG. In other embodiments, a designated button in a GUI or a key on a keyboard may be used as a trigger. The OP-BTI acquired, at block, may be on the MK, as described in. The OP-BTI may be on a printed instrument, such as marker. The OP-BTI may be associated with an RFID or NFC device.

520 500 In block, the methodmay include executing a check-in process for the return leg with the designated return travel carrier of each passenger using a graphical user interface (GUI) populated with information from the passenger manifest record and associated with the acquired OP-BTI.

501 The blockmay be repeated for each luggage item of a passenger of a plurality of passengers beginning a stay associated with a lodging entity to autonomously form a luggage manifest file with a conduit for check-in the plurality of luggage items with the designated return travel carrier or passenger manifest file with a conduit for check-in the plurality of passengers with the designated return travel carrier.

1001 In one or more embodiments, the methodA may include populating, by the at least one processor, a manifest file with each created passenger manifest record or luggage item manifest record for the lodging entity.

1008 1001 108 110 The blockA of the methodA may include identifying a travel carrier from the scanned O-BTI data and identifying stored communication session procedures to communicate with the travel carrier based on the scanned or digital O-BTI data. The stored communication session procedures may identify a communication protocol for accessing, by the at least one processor, a passenger name record (PNR) from a remote second processor (i.e., travel information systemor) associated with the travel carrier over a communication network, using communication formats described herein.

520 100 100 100 The process for executing the check-in process of block, for the return leg with the designated return travel carrier, may also use stored communication instructions to control a remote second processor to check in a passenger for the passenger's return leg of travel back home, for example, within a predetermined check-in window. The executed check-in process may be for the luggage item, the passenger or both the luggage item and the passenger. For example, a passenger may check themselves online using standard processes designated by the airline travel carrier and airline industry. Therefore, the systemmay only need to check-in the luggage item for the return flight. However, if the passenger does not check themselves in before systemis ready to check in the luggage item for the return flight, then systemmay check both the passenger and the luggage item in for the return flight.

For example, the passenger can check-in themselves in with an airline carrier or other entity for the return leg flight using a computing device or mobile communication device, such as, a smartphone, tablet, notebook, and laptop. The passenger check-in may be completely independent from the baggage check-in process. In one or more embodiments, the passenger may be checked in by a computing system of lodging entity that communicates with the return flight airline carrier, for example.

10 FIG.B 1001 1001 501 500 1002 1001 illustrates a flowchart of a methodB for generating return flight information from a PNR using a PNR number captured from image data in accordance with an embodiment. According to an example, the methodB can be performed, at block, in method. At blockB, methodB can begin after printing of an originating hardcopy bag tag associated with a first-mode (originating) travel carrier, such as an airline carrier, for a checked in luggage item of a passenger. The image may be captured anytime. Alternately, the image may be of a printed instrument having at least a portion of the passenger/airline information on the originating hardcopy bag tag.

It should be understood that the methods described herein can be performed for any travel carrier that will produce a hardcopy bag tag and structured numerical sequencing for identification of the bag tag attached to a luggage item.

1004 1001 In blockB, the methodB may include electronically receiving, by at least one processor, image data representative of at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed instrument having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create digital passenger information (DPI) data record linked to the airline travel carrier. The originating hardcopy bag tag may be issued for a checked-in luggage item of a passenger by an originating airline travel carrier.

1001 1006 The methodB may include accessing, by the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline travel carrier, based on the DPI data record, at blockB.

6 FIG. 600 600 400 400 600 128 600 148 illustrates a block diagram of programming modulesfor generating a master manifest in accordance with an embodiment. The programming modulesmay communicate with a plurality of computing devices having programming modulesA (or, alternatively, programming modules′) being executed thereon. The programming modulesmay be stored by a computing device associated with the travel information systemor other travel management system. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the programming modulesmay be stored on server.

148 128 148 108 110 In one or more embodiments, the serverand travel information systemmay be integrated into the same computing system. In other embodiments, the servermay be integrated into travel information systemor.

600 602 604 606 400 400 400 128 600 The programming modulesmay include manifest merger, master manifest generator, and return leg sorter. The one or more programming modulesA,B (or, alternatively,C) may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The computing device associated with the travel information systemmay include at least one processor and/or hardware to execute instructions of the one or more programming modules.

600 608 602 122 148 100 128 100 100 122 414 416 112 414 1 1 FIG.A orD The programming modulemay include a manifest graphical user interface (GUI)that may include program instructions, which when executed cause a manifest mergerto merge passenger manifest files from a plurality of computing devices, serversor systemsfor a current voyage. For example, the computing device associated with the travel information systemmay be in communications with a plurality of systemsand each systemmay have a plurality of computing devices. The passenger manifest files include a plurality of passenger manifest records created by the passenger manifest record generatorand return leg manifest generatorpopulated with information accessed from the PNR. The passenger manifest record generatormay be used to create the luggage manifest () that is linked to the passenger manifest. The luggage manifest may include the return leg information for the return flight with a designated return airline travel carrier or another mode of travel and any designated governmental screening locations for entering into a country or exiting a country before a next mode of travel.

100 107 126 107 126 107 126 126 It should be understood from the disclosure herein that there may be a plurality of local destination points, each serviced by a different system. For example, the DPmay be at a local train station that is local to the port of the lodging entity. The DPmay be at a local bus station that is local to the port of the lodging entity. The DPmay be at each local airport that is local to the port of the lodging entity. The term “local” means a travel distance of less than 5-20 miles, 20-50 miles, or 51-100 miles to the lodging entity, for example. For example, a lodging entity may be docked at a port in a state with multiple airports, multiple train stations, multiple bus stations, etc. any of which may be used by a passenger to arrive as close as possible to the port based on their own point of origination and travel costs.

608 604 606 604 100 128 112 142 100 The manifest GUImay interface with a master manifest generatorand return leg sorter. The master manifest generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, merge those files received from the one or more systemsand a manifest of booked passengers stored by the travel information systeminto a master manifest file populated with the information derived from a digitized O-BTI or the DPI data record. The master manifest file is populated with accessed information of the PNRrelated to the return leg of travel for those passengers with their BTscanned or imaged and processed by system.

112 For example, at a cruise ship port, some passengers arrive the same day as embarkation of the cruise ship. In other examples, passengers may arrive one or more days prior to embarkation. Still further, the passenger's PNRembarking on the same cruise voyage may be merged into a master manifest file. By way of a non-limiting example, a third-party service provider may manage the luggage for a plurality of cruise ships at a port.

112 608 608 608 Each cruise ship will have its own master manifest file. The populated manifest passenger record based on information in the PNRmay be displayed on a display device using the manifest GUI. The manifest GUIis a computer program that enables a user to see the passenger information records and their return leg flight information, for example. The passenger record may also include a passenger's cabin number on the current voyage. The return leg flight information may include without limitation, one or more of the travel carrier information, travel carrier geolocation, the flight number, flight departure time, and flight arrival time. The manifest GUImay display information used to create the DPI data record.

604 608 608 606 The master manifest generatormay include program instructions, which when executed, cause display of the generated master manifest file using the manifest GUIon a display device. The manifest GUImay also include program instructions, which when executed, cause a return leg sorterto enable personnel to sort the manifest by data associated a return flight or return leg mode of travel that meets a check-in window for a return leg of travel.

112 While not wishing to be bound by theory, accessing data of PNRbased on a digital recreation of a 10-digit license plate or the PNR number on the bag tag to automate a process to populate a manifest and/or check-in of a passenger (or their baggage) for their return leg of travel using the accessed data saves valuable human resources of the cruise ship and resources of a return travel carrier.

Passenger's itinerary for disembarking on a cruise ship (i.e., lodging entity) may vary. Some passengers may want to explore the state, city or town of the cruise ship dock, and arrive days early before disembarking.

100 148 100 148 In one or more embodiments, the systemvia server, for example, may begin to receive or capture terminating B-Type messages indicative of the termination of a passenger's luggage item being handled for a current leg of travel, such as when the first-mode of travel with an airline travel carrier from a computer system associated with the airline travel carrier or a baggage handling system issuing the B-Type message. In other embodiments, the systemvia servermay access these terminating B-Type messages stored in a computer system associated with the airline travel carrier or a baggage handling system issuing the B-Type message.

148 The servermay sort the terminating B-Type messages and match a passenger's name in the B-Type message with a passenger's name in the manifest file.

608 The processor(s) may sort a master manifest file with information associated with the passenger manifest record using a manifest GUIby the return leg flight times or other indicated times. The processor(s) may perform a check-in process for the return leg with the designated return travel carrier of each passenger based on the sorted master manifest file. In one or more embodiments, the master manifest file is for a resort destination that can include at least one hotel.

In one or more embodiments, the data for baggage check-in of the return leg of travel may include at least return leg flight times, an airline carrier and a PNR number. The methods herein may include sorting, by the at least one processor, the master manifest file with information associated with the return leg flight times for the plurality of passengers; and executing, by the at least one processor, a remote check-in process for baggage for the return leg of travel with the designated return travel carrier for each passenger based on the sorted master manifest file.

7 FIG. 700 122 148 Referring now to, in a basic configuration, a computing device(i.e., computing deviceor local computing device) may include any type of stationary computing device, server, personal computer (PC) or a mobile computing device.

700 706 700 702 704 724 149 400 600 2000 2400 1 1 400 400 FIGS.A andD,A-B 4 4 FIGS.A-C 6 FIG. 20 FIG. 24 FIG. The computing devicemay include one or more processing devicesand system memory in a hard drive. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device, system memory may be volatile (such as RAM), non-volatile (such as read only memory (ROM), flash memory, and the like) or some combination of the two. A system memory may store an operating system, and one or more applicationsand may include program data for performing at least one of the programming modules, described above in relation to(andC), described above in relation to, programming modules, described above in relation to, programming modules, described above in relation to, and programming modules, described in relation to.

700 500 800 800 900 900 900 900 1001 1001 1100 1102 1300 724 700 1800 1900 2200 2300 2600 2600 2800 3300 3302 3500 724 700 700 708 708 702 704 700 5 FIG. 8 8 FIGS.A-B 9 9 FIGS.A-D 10 10 FIG.A orB 11 FIG. 12 12 FIGS.A-C 13 FIG. 18 18 FIGS.A-B 19 FIG. 22 FIG. 23 FIG. 26 26 FIGS.A-B 28 FIG. 33 FIG. 34 FIG. 35 FIG. The computing devicemay carry out one or more blocks of a methodin, method, methodA andB in, methodsA,B,C, andD in, methodA orB, in, methodin, methodin, and methodin, described herein, via applications. The computing devicemay carry out one or more blocks of a methodin, methodin, methodin, methodinand methodsA andB in, methodin, methodin, methodin, and methodinvia applications. The computing devicemay also have additional features or functionality. As a non-limiting example, the computing devicemay also include additional data storage media devices(removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. The computer storage media devicesmay include volatile and non-volatile, non-transitory, removable, and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of data, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. The system memory, removable storage and non-removable storage are all non-limiting examples of computer storage media. The computer storage media may include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compact-disc-read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other physical medium which can be used to store the desired data and which can be accessed by computing device. Any such computer storage media may be part of the device.

700 712 714 714 118 116 712 716 718 716 700 710 700 1 FIG.B The computing devicemay also include or have input/output (I/O) interfacesfor input modulessuch as a keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc. Input modulesmay include a video device, an imaging device, and/or a scannershown in. The computing device may include or have I/O interfacesfor connection to output device(s) such as a display, a presentation module, speakers, etc. A graphical user interface (GUI)may be displayed on the presentation module. The computing devicemay include a peripheral busfor connecting to peripherals. Computing devicemay contain communication connection(s) that allow the device to communicate with other computing devices, such as over a network or a wireless network.

700 720 722 By way of example, and not limitation, communication connection(s) may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared and other wireless media. The computing devicemay include a network interface, such as a network interface card to connect (wired or wireless) to a network or other communication conduits.

700 735 737 740 700 700 In an embodiment, the computing devicemay also include accelerometers (ACC), gyroscopes, Global Positioning System (GPS)and/or Inertial Navigation Unit (INU)to determine a location of the computing devicesuch as a mobile communication device, a scanning device, computing device, or other RF communication devices. The location data of the computing deviceused to acquire the OP-BTI includes location data of the luggage item and the time stamp associated with the location data.

Computer program code for carrying out operations described above may be written in a variety of programming languages, including but not limited to a high-level programming language, such as C or C++, Python, Java, for development convenience. In addition, computer program code for carrying out operations of embodiments described herein may also be written in other programming languages, such as, but not limited to, interpreted languages. Some modules or routines may be written in assembly language or even micro-code to enhance performance and/or memory usage. It will be further appreciated that the functionality of any or all of the program modules may also be implemented using discrete hardware components, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a programmed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) or microcontroller. A code in which a program of the embodiments is described can be included as a firmware in a RAM, a ROM, and a flash memory. Otherwise, the code can be stored in a tangible computer-readable storage medium such as a magnetic tape, a flexible disc, a hard disc, a compact disc, a photo-magnetic disc, and a digital versatile disc (DVD).

The embodiments may be configured for use in a computer or a data processing apparatus which includes a memory, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a RAM and a ROM as well as a storage medium such as a hard disc.

In one or more embodiments, where the computing device is a server, the server may be one or more servers and the servers may be a virtual server.

8 FIG.A 800 800 800 800 illustrates a flowchart of a methodA for checking in baggage (i.e., luggage item) of a passenger leaving or departing a lodging entity in accordance with an embodiment. Although the example methodA depicts a particular sequence of operations, the sequence may be altered without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, some of the operations depicted may be performed in parallel or in a different sequence that does not materially affect the function of the methodA. In other examples, different components of an example device or system that implements the methodA may perform functions at substantially the same time or in a specific sequence. In one or more embodiments, one or more blocks disclosed herein may be omitted or blocks may be added.

800 802 800 According to some examples, the methodA includes checking in baggage of a passenger from the lodging entity for a return flight, at block. If the first-mode travel carrier is an airline, then the methodA may determine if the check-in window for baggage is open. For example, a passenger and/or their luggage for a flight may be allowed to be checked in within 24 hours to 48 hours of departure of a return flight. Train carriers may have a different window.

800 804 2710 148 2710 148 2 2 FIG.A orD According to some examples, the methodA includes causing creation of bag tag identifier and IATA license plate, at block. In some examples, the return flight IATA license plate may be generated by the DCS, or other airline host computer system designated to create the IATA license plate for the airline carrier. The “creation” may vary from airline to airline, mode to mode and situation to situation. For example, the serveror servermay include programming modules to assign a unique identifier that is compatible with an IATA license plate and related barcodes. The serveror servermay include programming modules for formatting the bag tag in a format compatible with an IATA bag tag format, such as shown in.

800 806 According to one or more embodiments, the methodA includes printing, by a printing device, a bag tag with license plate, at block. When baggage of a passenger is checked in, such as for a flight, one or more IATA B-Type messages are generated that include inbound and outbound airport codes and date, baggage details such as the 10-digit bag tag identifier, a passenger's name and PNR information.

In one or more embodiments, the printing device may print a marker tag that can be adhesively attached to the luggage item.

In one or more embodiments, the method may include communicating information associated with the 10-digit bag tag identifier of the return flight to the passenger so that upon return of their final leg of travel, the passenger can find and track their baggage using an IATA 10-digit bag tag identifier or the like.

800 100 The methodA may include during the remote/return baggage check-in process, obtaining, by the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return leg of travel for checked in luggage items for the passenger; and printing, by a printer, a new bag tag for the return leg of travel that is compatible with an IATA license plate for each checked in luggage item of the passenger. The systemmay email or text the passenger the printed BSM data such as the IATA license plate number similar to a commonly known luggage item or bag tag receipt.

800 The methodA may include replacing the originating printed bag tag with the new return flight bag tag for the return leg of travel.

In one or more embodiments, the new return flight bag tag may be used to track the luggage item of the passenger along other modes of travel and to deliver the luggage item to designated locations provided the originating printed bag tag has been removed and replaced. The new return flight bag tag may be used to track the location of the luggage item for delivery to a lodging entity, home address, other designated address, or another vehicle of travel on the return travel path.

8 FIG.B 23 FIG. 800 illustrates a flowchart of a methodB for checking in a luggage item, a passenger or a combination of a luggage item and a passenger leaving a lodging entity in accordance with an embodiment. The processor for checking in the luggage item or the passenger and luggage item may be triggered based on the scanning of a barcode of the IATA license plate number on the originating hardcopy bag tag, the printed instrument having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag, or a created marker with the IATA license plate number associated with the originating hardcopy bag tag. In an embodiment, a trigger may be interaction by a user with a GUI. The trigger may require validation/verification of the identity of the passenger as described in.

800 801 801 802 The methodB may, at block, determine if a trigger has been received. If, at block, the determination is “YES”, the method proceeds to block.

801 801 If, at block, the determination is “NO”, the method may loop back to the beginning of blockto wait for the trigger, as a luggage item may not be checked until a window is opened by an airline carrier. In some instances, the passenger may check themselves in as soon as a window is open, using an online portal with an airline carrier that is known in the art.

800 802 8 FIG.A According to some examples, the methodB includes checking in a luggage item or a passenger and luggage item from the lodging entity for return flight, at block, described in relation to.

800 804 According to some examples, the methodB may include causing creation of bag tag identifier and IATA license plate, at block.

100 100 In an embodiment, systemmay be a non-flying airline carrier configured to create an IATA license plate internally. In an embodiment, the systemobtains the IATA bag tag information for the return flight with a DCS associated with the designated return flight airline travel carrier.

800 805 805 806 805 805 806 The methodB may, at block, determine if a trigger has been received. If, at block, the determination is “YES”, the method may proceed to block. If, at block, the determination is “NO”, the method may loop back to the beginning of block. According to an example, the blockmay be triggered in response to a subsequent scan or the acquiring of the OP-BTI and/or the creation of the digital BTI data record during the check-in window for the return flight. The trigger may require a keystroke on a computing device or scanning by a scanning device to trigger the printing of the stored new bag tag for the return home or return leg of travel.

800 806 According to some examples, the methodB may include printing an IATA bag tag with license plate, at block. When a passenger is checked in, such as for a flight, one or more IATA B-Type messages are generated that include inbound and outbound flight numbers and date, baggage details such as the 10-digit bag tag identifier, the passenger's name and PNR information (i.e., PNR number). The PNR number is also known as a PNR locator.

The process for checking in a passenger and luggage item on a return flight may include communicating electronically to a passenger's mobile phone or computing device, a boarding pass to the passenger. The communication may include an email of the boarding pass for the return flight. The communication may include a text message of the boarding pass for the return flight.

In one or more embodiments, the communication may include information associated with the 10-digit bag tag identifier so that upon return of their final leg of travel, the passenger can find and track their baggage using an IATA 10-digit bag tag identifier or the like.

800 805 According to an example, the methodB may be triggered, at block, by electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquiring device, an originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or printed on the originating hardcopy bag tag from the airline travel carrier that is on the luggage item of the passenger to create a digital BTI data record within a check-in window to check-in the luggage item or passenger and luggage item.

Various remote check-in processes are known. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 11,348,040, titled “INTEGRATED END-TO-END TRAVEL INSTRUMENT (TI) DEVICE GENERATION SYSTEM AND INTEGRATED INSTRUMENT DEVICE” is incorporated herein by reference. US2010/0211418 titled “BAGGAGE TAGGING SYSTEM AND METHOD HAVING DATA FROM MULTIPLE SOURCES,” is incorporated herein by reference.

800 800 The methodA orB may include during the remote check-in process, obtaining, by the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return leg of travel for checked in luggage items for the passenger; and printing, by a printer, a new bag tag for the return leg of travel that is compatible with an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate for each checked in luggage item of the passenger.

800 800 The methodA orB may include replacing the printed bag tag from the first-mode travel carrier with the new bag tag for the return leg of travel.

800 800 The methodA orB may include during the remote check-in process, obtaining, by the at least one processor, boarding pass information for the return leg of travel of the passenger; and communicating, by the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

The boarding pass information may include bar coded boarding pass information. The boarding pass information may be in an e-ticketing format.

9 FIG.A 900 900 902 illustrates a flowchart of a methodA for merging passenger manifest and lodging entity information in accordance with an embodiment. According to some examples, the methodA may include searching and finding lodging information from a lodging entity database for each passenger in the manifest file, at blockA. By way of a non-limiting example, the lodging entity database may include a passenger room, suite, or cabin number. The lodging information may include a lodging address, building numbers, floor numbers, level numbers, and other location delivery identifiers for delivering a luggage item. The information may also be communicated to the passenger.

900 904 900 906 900 908 100 100 According to one or more examples, the methodA may include updating the manifest file with the lodging information, at blockA. According to some examples, the methodA may include selectively providing the lodging information to a passenger from the updated manifest, at blockA. According to some examples, the methodA may include providing an updated manifest to the lodging entity, at blockA. The updated manifest includes the lodging information from the lodging entity and the passenger information, such as a passenger's name, return flight information for at least a first-mode travel carrier and original bag tag ID. The manifest may include a luggage manifest wherein the luggage manifest includes those luggage items to be delivered to the lodging entity. Systemmay prepare a general master luggage item manifest to track, deliver and pick up all luggage items in its care. In some instances, systemmay assist the luggage item in bypassing or expediting its Customs or border crossing security screening stations.

The data for check-in of the return leg of travel may include at least return leg flight times and airline carrier (i.e., designated return flight carrier). The method may include sorting, by the at least one processor, the master manifest file with information associated the return leg flight times for the plurality of passengers; and executing, by the at least one processor, a remote check-in process for the return leg of travel with the designated return travel carrier of each passenger based on the sorted master manifest file.

9 FIG.B 900 illustrates a flowchart of a methodB for merging passenger manifest and lodging entity information in accordance with an embodiment.

The lodging entity may include a cruise ship, a resort, a hotel, a short-term rental homestay, long-term rental homestay, residential dwelling, and building.

900 902 According to some examples, the methodB may include searching and finding lodging information from lodging entity database for each passenger in the manifest file, at blockB. By way of a non-limiting example, the lodging entity database may include a passenger room, suite, or cabin number.

900 2716 2718 2720 2722 27 FIG. The methodB may be an inbound process for processing baggage of the passenger upon arrival of the passenger or their luggage at a lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, the passenger does not need to be present at the inbound registration of the baggage at or local to the destination point or at the lodging entity. The manifest filemay be from an airport. Other reservation information may be from manifests of a railway (train) reservation system, a bus reservation system, a ferry reservation system, and a lodging entity reservation systemof. The disclosure is not limited to these examples.

In one or more embodiments, travel reservations of multiple modes of travel and/or lodging entities can be merged to centralize delivery and check-in information for baggage of a passenger independent of the passenger. In some instances, the centralized manifest may be untethered to any travel mode or lodging entity.

900 904 900 906 900 908 According to some examples, the methodB may include updating the manifest file with the lodging information, at blockB. According to some examples, the methodB may include selectively providing the lodging information to a passenger from the updated manifest, at blockB. According to some examples, the methodB may include providing an updated manifest to the lodging entity, at blockB. The updated manifest includes the lodging information from the lodging entity and the passenger information, such as a passenger's name, return flight information for at least a first-mode travel carrier and original bag tag ID.

900 2710 900 912 910 2710 912 930 912 27 FIG. According to some examples, the methodB may include communicating lodging information to B-Type message server(). According to some examples, the methodB may include determining, at blockB, whether an update to the lodging information is received. If the determination is “YES,” the method loops back to blockB where the updated lodging information is communicated to the B-Type message server. If the determination, at blockB, is “NO,” the method on lineB loops back to blockB to wait for any updates.

11 FIG. 1100 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor creating the DPI data record in accordance with an embodiment.

1100 1102 The methodmay include performing image processing on the image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline travel carrier on the originating hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text to searchable machine-encoded text sequences, at block. However, the image may be a printed instrument having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag.

The image processing algorithms for optical character recognition (OCR) may include computer vision machine learning algorithms, deep learning algorithms or traditional image processing for the recognition of printed text.

1100 1104 The methodmay include creating the DPI data record linked to the airline travel carrier from the machine-encoded text sequences of the passenger information for accessing the return flight with the designated return travel carrier, at block.

12 12 FIGS.A-C 1102 1102 1102 illustrate a flowchart of a methodof performing image processing of the image data associated with the originating hardcopy bag tag or printed instrument in accordance with an embodiment. The methodmay include locating the originating hardcopy bag tag in at least one image. This may include using background subtraction machine learning algorithms to isolate the pixels of the originating hardcopy bag tag from the background in the image, in some examples. In other examples, edge detection algorithms may be used to find the border of the originating hardcopy bag tag from which to isolate the pixels of the originating hardcopy bag tag, in some examples. Still further, the methodmay include locating the printed instrument in the at least one image.

2 FIG.A The type of printed passenger information may indicate a location on the originating hardcopy bag tag to find the printed passenger information of interest. For example, the layout inis a typical layout for some airlines. The layout may include the IATA barcode and license plate toward the bottom of the bag tag. The layout may include a destination airport field, which in this instance is Miami International Airport with the representative code “MIA” printed. The destination airport field may be above the IATA barcode(s). Furthermore, in the destination airport field, there may be an airline code “AA” printed to designate the airline travel carrier the luggage item and passenger are traveling on to the destination airport.

The layout may include an originating airport field, which in this instance is Tampa International Airport with the representative code “TPA” printed. The originating airport field may be above the destination airport field on the originating hardcopy bag tag. Furthermore, in the originating airport field, there may be an airline code “AA” printed to designate the airline travel carrier the luggage item and passenger are traveling from the originating airport.

The layout may include other space for printing a passenger's name on the originating hardcopy bag tag. For example, the passenger's name may be printed below the IATA barcode or IATA license plate.

The layout may include other space for printing a PNR number on the originating hardcopy bag tag. By way of a non-limiting example, the PNR number may be printed at a location on the originating hardcopy bag tag that is above the originating airport field.

The layout may include other space for printing an airline name on the originating hardcopy bag tag. By way of a non-limiting example, the airline name may be printed at a location on the originating hardcopy bag tag that is above the originating airport field.

The layout may include other space for printing other information at the discretion of the airline on the originating hardcopy bag tag. The other information may include auxiliary information that may be used to identify the passenger for accessing passenger travel information stored in a memory device associated with the airline travel carrier.

2 FIG.D However, as shown in, the layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag is different for another airline. Therefore, it may be useful to determine an airline code whether alphabetical or numerical on the originating hardcopy bag tag or other printed instrument.

1102 212 1102 The methodmay use optical character recognition (OCR) processes to convert an image of text into a machine-readable text format. The image of text may be searchable, as a whole, to locate standardized codes within the image of text to form the DPI data record. However, the originating hardcopy bag tag may become damaged. Therefore, some or all of the text may not be optically readable using the OCR processes. Depending on which passenger/airline information is not available, other printed instruments that may include portions of the originating hardcopy bag tag may be used. By way of an example, the bag tag markermay be used to create the DPI data record by capturing an image of the bag tag marker. The methodmay be performed using the image of the bag tag marker. For example, the airline code is embedded in the digits of the IATA license plate.

1102 1206 The methodmay include optically recognizing text of an airline code or airline name in the at least one image of the originating hardcopy bag tag, at block.

1102 1208 The methodmay include forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code image or the airline name, at block. As used herein, the term “forming” is also interchangeable with “converting.”

1102 432 1210 432 The methodmay include matching the formed airline code with an airline code in an airline code list in the database, at block. The databaseincludes both the memory device and information of the airline code to airline name.

1102 1212 1212 1102 1216 1218 430 430 12 FIG.B The methodmay determine, at block, whether an airline code match is found. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay retrieve a layout for the airline travel carrier, at block, and proceed to blockof. The BT layout may be looked up in the BT layout database. The databasemay include both the memory device and information on the layout of the bag tag and presentation of certain passenger/airline information.

1212 1102 1206 1206 1214 12 FIG.A If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay loop back to blockof, where this is another attempt to find the airline code. The airline code may be used to find a layout of the printed airline information and the passenger information associated with the airline on the originating hardcopy bag tag. The loop back to blockmay include a decision blockto determine if the maximum number of attempts have been made. By way of a non-limiting example, a first attempt to find an airline code may include looking for a two-character airline code in the originating airline field or the a two-character airline code in an image of an IATA compatible license plate. There may be other ways of obtaining the printed airline code or airline name based on the description herein.

1214 1102 1206 1214 1102 12 FIG.A 13 FIG. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay proceed to blockofto continue to locate a valid airline code or airline name. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay loop to, where another method of finding the PNR number is used.

1102 1218 The methodmay include optically recognizing the printed text of the PNR number in the at least one image of the originating hardcopy bag tag, at block.

1102 1222 The methodmay include forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, at block.

1102 1224 1224 1102 1228 1224 1102 1218 1226 1226 1102 1218 1226 1102 13 FIG. The methodmay determine, at block, whether a PNR number is found. The PNR number may be a unique sequence of six alphanumerical characters. In one or more embodiments, the PNR number may be preceded by the phrase “PNR” with or without a space or other character, such as a hyphen or colon. However, this may be at the discretion of the airline carrier. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay proceed to block. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay loop back to block, where this is another attempt to find the PNR number. However, the attempts are limited, at block, to a maximum number of attempts. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay proceed to block. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay proceed to, to use the text of the IATA license plate as a linking index to the PNR information (i.e., PNR number) in the B-Type messages.

1102 1228 The methodmay include optically recognizing the printed text of the passenger's name in the at least one image of the originating hardcopy bag tag, at block.

1102 1232 The methodmay include forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger's name, at block.

1102 1234 1234 1102 1240 1234 1102 1228 1236 1236 1102 1228 1236 1102 12 FIG.C 13 FIG. The methodmay determine, at block, whether a passenger's name is found. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay proceed to blockof. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay loop back to block, where this is another attempt to find the name of the passenger. However, the attempts are limited, at block, to a maximum number of attempts. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay proceed to block. If the determination, at block, is YES,” the methodmay loop toor alternately, use an image of a printed instrument, if available (now shown in method).

In some instances, the passenger's name may be captured by using the IATA license plate and accessing a B-Type message that includes the passenger's name. However, the passenger's name may also be extracted or obtained from the printed instrument if the originating hardcopy bag tag is damaged.

1102 1240 The methodmay include optically recognizing the printed text of auxiliary information (AI) in the layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag in the at least one image, at block.

1102 1242 The methodmay include forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the auxiliary information, at block.

1102 1244 1244 1102 1248 1102 1240 1244 1102 1250 1252 The methodmay determine, at block, whether an AI is found. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay proceed to block, where another determination is made to determine whether any more AI types are expected to have been printed on the bag tag or printed instrument. If the determination is “YES,” the methodloops back to blockand looks for more sequences of text. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodforms the DPI data record, at blockand ends, at block.

1246 1246 1102 1240 1246 1250 1252 The attempts to find AI are limited, at block, to a maximum number of attempts. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay proceed to block. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the method proceeds to blockpreviously described and ends, at block.

13 FIG. 1300 1300 1302 1300 1304 1300 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the IATA license plate in accordance with an embodiment. If the PNR number is not capable of being obtained from the image of the printed originating hardcopy bag tag, then the PNR number may be obtained from the B-Type messages. The methodmay include optically recognizing the printed text of the IATA license plate in the at least one image of the originating hardcopy bag tag, at block. The methodmay include forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the IATA license plate, at block. The methodmay also find the passenger's name.

14 FIG.A 1400 illustrates a conventional BSMA for an airline carrier. The BSM is a B-Type message. The B-Type message may include a plurality of data fields that include coded characters. For example, the coded characters may include one of American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) code, Baudot, and Padded Baudot, for example. The Baggage Information Messages or the B-Type messages code and format is described for example in the “Recommended Practice 1745 Baggage Information Messages” by IATA, in the Passenger Services Resolution Manual, June 2010, 30 Edition, pgs. 1110-1205. The B-Type message may be communicated over the Internet and using message using Extended Markup Language (XML) messages.

1402 1404 14 FIG.A The B-Type message may include field or linethat includes a header. For example, the header may be labeled “BSM,” which represents the heading of the beginning of an airline's BSM. The field or linemay include a line preface “.V/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters. By way of a non-limiting example, the line preface “.V/” may denote version and supplemental data. For example, supplement data may include a transfer station in an airline or airport infrastructure. The .V/data field may indicate whether the B-Type message, such as a BSM, is a terminating BSM. The .V/data field includes after the “/” a digit that indicates a data dictionary version number. The next character may be a baggage source indicator denoted by a “L” to denote Local, a “T” to denote Transfer, an “X” to denote Terminating, or a “R” to denote Remote. The baggage source indicator is followed by a three-digit airport code. In, the BSM is a transfer BSM with a version number 1 and an airport code of JFK.

100 When sorting on the BSM, the BSMs from all air carrier are received and sorted. By way of a non-limiting example, the .V/field may be searched for the baggage source indicator of “T.” Additionally, the systemmay have many site locations. Therefore, a cruise ship departing Tampa, the system would sort on a terminating BSM with an a “T” and “TPA” in the .V field in the baggage source indicator and the airport code corresponding digits.

Other B-Type messages may have or be modified to have similar in the baggage source indicators.

1406 The field or linemay include a line preface “.F/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters that represent the outbound flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by a symbol “/”. For example, the data “22MAY” may represent the date of arrival. The code “IST” represents Istanbul Airport.

1408 The field or linemay include a line preface “.If” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters that represent the Inbound flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by a symbol “/”. For example, the data “12MAY” may represent the date of departure. The code “SLC” represents Salt Lake City Airport.

1412 1410 The field or linemay include a line preface “.N/” followed by a set of numbers, which represent the digital BTI data record of the OP-BTI. The field or linemay include a line preface “.P/” followed by a set of characters, which represent the passenger's name. The first name may be separated by the last name by a symbol “/”.

1418 1420 The field or linemay include a line preface “.L/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters, which represent the passenger name record number or PNR number. The field or linemay include an end of message indicator, such as “ENDBSM.”

1402 1420 1414 1416 1414 1416 Between linesand, there may be other fields or lines, such as fieldsand. The field or linehas a preface “.S/” and is related to reconciliation data. The field or linehas a preface of “.W/” and is related to the weight, pieces, dimension, and type data of the luggage item. Since, the airline's B-Type messages are known in the art, no further description of B-Type messages will be described. Some of the fields/lines are mandatory and others are optional depending on the B-Type message.

100 100 However, the systemmay access other B-Type messages from a computer system associated with the airline carrier to determine whether a luggage item is missing or not found, for example. The systemmay access other B-Type messages stored in a computer system associated with the airline carrier to determine the status of a luggage prior to the passenger starting their stay at a lodging entity, for example, or at other times to track the status of the luggage moving through the airport environment.

1400 The example conventional BSMA is provided for descriptive purposes and is not meant to be limiting in any way. Each airline may have changes to the airline's BSM.

14 FIG.B 1400 1400 1400 illustrates a simulated BSMB for a return flight that may be generated inside or outside of the regulated check-in window in accordance with an embodiment. The simulated BSMB may serve as a placeholder for generating large volumes of the BSM inside or outside of the regulated check-in window of airlines, for example, or other modes of travel. The simulated BSMB is a template.

1422 14 FIG.A The B-Type message may include field or linethat includes a header. For example, the header may be labeled “SBSM,” which represents the heading of the beginning of an airline's BSM, for example, or may include another B-Type message header. For the sake of description and illustration, the simulated BSM in this example may have the same format the layout as the BSM in. Therefore, only the differences will be described. For the sake of simplicity, the same code references may be used. However, slight differences may be used. For example, a simulated BSM header or another B-Type message may start with an “S” such that the header can be “SBSM,” for example. In another example, the simulated BSM header or another B-Type message may end with a symbol, such as, an “*”. These examples are not meant to be limiting. The start letter “S” may include two characters or an alphanumeric combination of two-digit codes.

1424 The field or linemay include a line preface “.V/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters. By way of a non-limiting example, the line preface “.V/” may denote version and supplemental data. Since, this is a simulated BSM outside of the regulated check-in window, the “.V/” field is marked as “NULL.”

1426 The field or linemay include a line preface “.F/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters that represent the outbound flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by a symbol “/”. For example, the data “31MAY” may represent the date of arrival. The code “SLC” represents Salt Lake City Airport.

1428 The field or linemay include a line preface “.I/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters that represent the Inbound flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by a symbol “/”. For example, the data “30MAY” may represent the date of departure. The code “IST” represents Istanbul Airport.

1430 1436 The field or linemay include a line preface “.N/” followed by the set of characters “NULL.” This is because the bag tag identifier has not been assigned yet. The field or linemay include a line preface “.P/” followed by a set of characters, which represent the passenger's name. The first name may be separated by the last name by a symbol “/”.

431 In one or more embodiments, the simulated B-Type message generatormay assign a bag tag identifier that is compatible with the 10-digit IATA bag tag number that is printed as a bag tag for airline carriers. In this instance, the “.N/” preface will be followed by the assigned bag tag identifier or 10-digit IATA bag tag number. The numerical digits in the field following the “.N/” preface may include the number of luggage items checked in.

148 1310 The assignment of the bag tag identifier by serveror serveroutside of the airline travel information system may vary by airline or country.

1438 1440 1438 1438 1440 The field or lineandmay include be used for remote check-in. For example, field linemay include line preface “.D/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters or alpha characters for bag check-in details. Each “.D/” code field varies based on the location data for the type of remote check-in. For example, the fieldmay include at least location data, date, and time, for example. The field or linemay include a preface “.C/” followed by characters, for example, which represent a company or group name.

1442 1444 The field or linemay include a line preface “.L/” followed by a set of alphanumeric characters, which represent the passenger name record number or PNR number. The field or linemay include an end of message indicator, such as “ENDBSM.”

1422 1440 1432 1434 1432 1434 Between linesand, there may be other fields or lines, such as fieldsand. The fieldhas a preface “.S/” and fieldhas a preface of “.W/”, both of which are marked “NULL.” The fields or lines marked “NULL” cannot be populated with return flight data because the airline system, such as the DCS, does not allow the baggage to be checked in until a regulated check-in window is open.

The simulated B-Type message or simulated BSM may be used as a placeholder to prepopulate the BSM or other B-Type message for checking in baggage that assigns the IATA license plate number.

In one or more embodiments, a third-party provider or the company checking in the baggage may be configured to assign a unique identifier that is compatible with an IATA license plate number including barcode formatting for printing on an IATA bag tag.

15 FIG. 15 FIG. 1500 136 is a diagrammatic view of a processfor generation of baggage authorization indicia for bypassing additional baggage screening or indication of screening completion in accordance with an embodiment. The process shown inmay create MK, for example.

15 FIG. 2 FIG.B 2 FIG.A 1500 212 200 212 212 214 216 1506 218 220 In, a processmay begin with scanning marker() or an originating hardcopy bag tag(). The markeris shown to prevent overcrowding in the figure. The markermay include the passenger's name, origination airport flight identifier, destination airport flight identifier, a 10-digit license plateand adjacent barcoded license plateand or BSM record indicium.

116 220 116 148 136 212 136 212 1516 1514 1518 138 136 120 136 138 26 26 FIGS.A-B Bar code scannerreads barcode. Scanneris communicatively coupled to serverto receive the results of the security screening as described inand information from the simulated BSM. The MKin one or more embodiments may be similar to marker. However, in this instance, MKis updated with the same or similar BSM data from, and the cruise inline mode of the travel or lodging entity is represented by marine mode indiciumand the indication it has passed screening under the cruise line and government security rubric is presented by marine approval indicia. Additional detailson the destination on a cruise ship for the luggage itemare enumerated from a cruise ship (lodging entity) manifest which contains the cruise line, cruise ship, departure date, room number, deck number and booking number. The print file of MKis sent to printer, for example, for printing. The MKis affixed to the luggage item.

138 138 138 From the airport to the luggage itemis in trusted custody and only accessible by trusted custody handlers. In other words, the passenger or owner of baggagedoes not have access to baggageand therefore there is no opportunity to insert contraband or prohibited items since in the initial screening by TSA.

212 100 1500 136 In the event, the originating hardcopy bag tag is missing and the markeris missing, for example, the luggage item would need to be process independently. However, the systemwould match the passenger with their luggage item and simulated BSM created for example, from the image data captured by the mobile communication device. The simulated BSM and/or security data can be printed by process. The MKmay include information from the cruise ship (lodging entity) manifest which contains the cruise line, cruise ship, departure date, room number, deck number and booking number.

16 FIG. 190 190 1 190 10 40 1 10 30 35 10 10 20 22 illustrates a security screening integration assistant (SSIA) systemin accordance with an embodiment. The SSIA systemis shown in the black lined box below line L. The SSIA systemmay be communicatively coupled with a first mode of travel system (FMTS)and a first security screening machine system (FSSMS), both of which are shown above the line L. By way of a non-limiting example, the FMTSmay include one or more computing systems,or server systems with memory devices that are either directly or indirectly associated with the FMTS. It should be understood from the disclosure that each airline carrier company has many server systems and/or computing systems. The FMTSmay include a plurality of air carriersand, for example, for a particular airline company.

10 The term “SVTS” is used to denote a second vehicle of travel system (SVTS) which may be a cruise ship, a bus, a train, or lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, a cruise ship is a lodging entity. In one or more embodiments, a train may be a lodging entity. The SVTS may be the next vehicle of travel system. The FMTSis a first vehicle of travel system (FVTS) and is an airline travel carrier originating anywhere in the world.

10 30 35 To prevent overcrowding in the figure, the FMTSmay include a plurality of air carriers for a plurality of airline companies. Each airline company may have their own respective computer systemsand computer systems. The term “air carrier” may be used interchangeably with the airline company and the vehicle of travel.

30 35 30 35 The computer systemsmay be a travel information system which stores passenger itinerary data, flight information, and checks in passengers, for example. The computer systemsmay store B-Type messages that are generated by the baggage handling systems routing checked-in luggage items through the airport infrastructure. The computer systemsormay provide for checking in luggage items. In one or more embodiments, a travel carrier such as an airline travel carrier may require the passenger to check-in and then print or generate their boarding pass. After the passenger checks in, the luggage item may be checked in.

10 200 40 2 FIG.A The passenger's luggage items are checked-in with an air carrier, which is part of the FMTS. The checked-in luggage items are tagged with an originating hardcopy bag tagas shown in. After tagging, the luggage item is sent through an automated conveyor system of a baggage handling system to the FSSMS.

40 10 40 45 50 40 55 113 45 40 65 113 50 The FSSMSis shown separately from the FMTS, but both may be housed in or be part of an airport infrastructure. The FSSMSmay include one or more security screening imaging machinesand. The FSSMSmay include one or more computing systemsor server systems with memory devicesto store security screening images from imaging machines. The FSSMSmay include one or more computing systemsor server systems with memory devicesto store security screening images from imaging machines.

The government agency that governs security screening of airlines may be denoted by TSA. Several vendors manufacture CT scanners used by TSA for baggage screening. Some of the prominent vendors include, for example:

SMITHS DETECTION: SMITHS DETECTION is a leading provider of advanced security solutions, including CT scanners. Their HI-SCAN XCT series scanners, like the HI-SCAN 6040 XCT and HI-SCAN 7555 XCT, are designed for screening checked and carry-on baggage at airports.

L3HARRIS Technologies: L3HARRIS Technologies is another major supplier of security equipment, including CT scanners for baggage screening. The company's CLEARSCAN brand family of CT scanners is used by TSA at various airports in the United States.

ANALOGIC Corporation: ANALOGIC Corporation develops advanced imaging technologies, including CT scanners for airport security. Their CONNECT brand series of scanners, such as the CONNECT 70 and CONNECT 100, are designed to enhance airport security screening.

LEIDOS (previously Lockheed Martin): LEIDOS is a global technology company that provides security solutions, including CT scanners for baggage screening. They have developed the VACIS M6500 system, a high-performance CT scanner for screening baggage at airports.

CT images generated during baggage screening are typically saved in a multi-image format. This format allows for the exchange, storage, and transmission of images across different systems and devices. CT scanners capture a series of 2D cross-sectional images, which can then be reconstructed into a 3D representation of the scanned object. The 3D visualization and analysis of CT images often involves specialized software designed for processing and rendering the multi-image files. These software solutions can reconstruct the 2D slices into 3D models, enabling security personnel to examine the scanned baggage in more detail.

The DICOS (Digital Imaging and Communications for Security) standard is an image format standard developed by NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) in collaboration with DHS. It aims to enhance the interoperability and effectiveness of security screening systems, such as those used in airports and other critical infrastructure facilities. DICOS is designed to meet the specific needs of security imaging, including the storage, transmission, and processing of security images. It addresses the limitations of the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) standard, which is primarily focused on medical imaging. The DICOS standard provides:

Interoperability: DICOS enables seamless communication between different security imaging systems and components from various manufacturers, allowing for more efficient and effective security screening processes.

Extensibility: The DICOS standard is designed to be easily extended and adapted to incorporate modern technologies and methods as they emerge in the field of security imaging.

Flexibility: DICOS supports a wide range of security imaging modalities, including X-ray, CT, MRI, and others, making it suitable for various security applications.

The size of TSA files can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the scanner's resolution, the number of slices captured, the level of compression applied, and the size of the baggage being scanned. In general, CT scans produce many high-resolution images, which can result in substantial file sizes. A single multi-image file for a CT scan can range from a few hundred kilobytes to several megabytes. When considering an entire baggage scan, which may include multiple files, the total size can easily reach several tens or even hundreds of megabytes.

40 45 50 45 50 The initial screening process by the FSSMSmay be performed by large X-ray machines (i.e., security screening imaging machinesand). These security screening imaging machinesandare designed to detect a range of materials, including explosives and other contraband. Baggage is screened using dual-energy X-ray systems that allow security personnel to differentiate between organic and inorganic materials based on their atomic number. This helps in identifying potentially dangerous substances. If the X-ray scan shows something suspicious, the bag is diverted for further inspection. This usually involves a physical inspection by a trained security officer and may also involve the use of more advanced scanning technologies like CT (Computed Tomography) scanners, which can provide a more detailed, 3D images of the bag's contents. In some cases, explosive trace detection (ETD) machines may also be used. These machines can detect traces of explosives on the outside of the bag or on the items inside the bag. They work by swabbing the bag or item and then analyzing the swab for any explosive residue.

Those luggage items with detected explosives or certain hazardous items within the luggage item are prevented from boarding the air carrier.

45 50 190 40 The security screening imaging machineandmay detect materials or chemicals that individually are not hazardous but if combined may be hazardous. Once on a second mode of travel, those materials or chemicals may be combined deliberately or accidentally. In one or more embodiments, the SSIA systemmay request the FSSMSto provide a list of all detected chemicals and the amounts associated with an object within a luggage item.

1680 The objects allowed in checked-in luggage items stored in the cargo hold of an air carrier can be different from objects allowed in luggage items boarding a cruise ship (i.e., second mode of transportation system (SMTS)A), for example. This may be in part because weapons are not accessible in checked-in luggage items during the flight of a passenger while the luggage item is in the cargo hold. On cruise ships, however, the luggage items are delivered to the cabin room of the passenger where the passenger has direct access to the weapon during the cruise, which can be a threat to other passengers.

1670 1670 1670 1670 1670 1670 1670 1670 2672 2672 2670 190 1670 1670 1670 1670 2600 2600 26 FIG.A 26 26 FIGS.A andB Depending on the next vehicle of travel, the luggage item may be screened by ISSSA,B,C andD, for example. Each ISSAA,B,C andD may include an SS computer stationA and security screening deviceB as described in relation to ISSSof. The SSIA systemmay be configured to interface with the ISSSA,B,C andD, as described in more detail in relation to the methodsA andB of.

What a traveler is permitted to carry within checked-in luggage on a flight may be different than what is permitted on ship. For example, some weapons may be approved for a checked-in and travel in a luggage item placed in an airplanes cargo. However, once on a cruise ship, the owner of the luggage item would have access to the weapon during the cruise, which presents a hazard risk. The specific list of prohibited items may vary between cruise lines, but some common items that are allowed on airplanes but prohibited on cruise lines may include, for example:

Alcohol: Many cruise lines have strict policies on bringing personal alcohol on board. While you can carry a limited amount of alcohol in your checked luggage on an airplane, cruise lines often restrict or limit the amount you can bring onboard.

Power Strips: Power strips, surge protectors, and extension cords are typically allowed in airplane carry-on or checked luggage, but many cruise lines prohibit them due to potential fire hazards.

Clothing Irons: Clothing irons are usually allowed in checked luggage on airplanes but are often prohibited on cruise ships. Cruise ships typically provide laundry services or self-service laundry facilities with irons.

Pool Inflatables: While these items are allowed on airplanes, they may not be permitted on cruise ships due to limited pool space and safety concerns.

Drones: Some airlines allow drones as carry-on or checked luggage, but most cruise lines prohibit them for safety and privacy reasons.

Hoverboards and similar devices: These items are typically allowed on airplanes if they meet specific battery requirements. However, many cruise lines ban them due to fire hazards and safety concerns.

Sporting equipment: Some cruise lines may restrict or prohibit specific sporting equipment, such as baseball bats or golf clubs, which are allowed in checked luggage on airplanes.

Weapons: Some cruise lines may restrict guns, knives, large scissors, and pepper mace. Small grooming scissors may be allowed.

Similarly, certain items allowed on airplanes may be prohibited or restricted on trains (railways), such as:

Large luggage: While airlines typically allow checked luggage with size and weight limits, trains often have stricter size restrictions or limited storage space for large suitcases.

Bicycles: Many airlines allow bicycles as checked luggage, but not all trains permit bicycles, or they may require a reservation and additional fees.

Sporting equipment: Some trains may restrict or prohibit specific sporting equipment, such as surfboards, skis, or golf clubs, which are allowed in checked luggage on airplanes.

Camping gear: Camping gear like portable stoves, fuel canisters, and tents with stakes may be allowed in checked luggage on airplanes but could be restricted or prohibited on trains.

Musical instruments: While airlines often allow musical instruments as carry-on or checked luggage, some trains may have size or weight restrictions for these items.

Hazardous materials: Items such as flammable liquids, compressed gases, or corrosive substances may be allowed in limited quantities on airplanes, but trains may have stricter regulations.

Buses may prohibit one or more objects and substances described above or others.

Hotels and resorts may prohibit one or more of objects and substances described above or others.

The examples described herein are for illustrative and descriptive purposes and should not be limiting in any manner. As should be understood from the description herein, to describe each and every rule and regulation for all modes of transportation or travel around the world is prohibitive.

The rules and regulations may vary based on passing through different government agencies and in differing countries. Rules and regulations may limit or prohibit amounts of currency, agriculture, food, and other objects on prohibited lists for any mode of travel.

1680 1680 1675 The baggage screening process in cruise ships (i.e., SMTSA) is like that in airports, though with some differences owing to the unique nature of maritime travel. The SMTSA may include one or more servers or computer systemA. When passengers arrive at the cruise terminal, their luggage item is checked-in and tagged. These passengers arrive by driving up and hand carrying their own luggage item(s).

1670 2670 2672 45 50 26 FIG.A 26 FIG.A The luggage item may then go through an Integrated Security Screening Station (ISSS)A (i.e., ISSS). As described in, the security screening deviceB may be the same as one or both of imaging machinesand, for example.

2672 The process described herein is for those luggage items that were previously screened for security and have follow-along security image and data files available to share for a first-phase security screening analysis. Other luggage items without follow-along security image and data files may be processed by the security screening deviceB to determine if the luggage item clears the security screening process.

190 1670 190 1670 2672 190 2672 190 26 FIG.B In the integrated security screening process, the SSIA systemmay be configured to assist the ISSSA by obtaining the follow-along security image and data and interface with a trusted custody handler taking custody of the luggage items from the air carrier to the SMTS while preserving the security chain of custody by a trusted custody handler. In this manner, the follow-along security image and data obtained by SSIA systemmay be assembled and sent to the ISSSA so that the SS computer stationA can be used to perform a first-phase security screening analysis for the second vehicle of travel or next vehicle of travel for prohibited objects associated with regulation or rules for the government agency or security entity associated with cruise ships. If the luggage item screening by the first-phase security screening analysis for the second vehicle of travel clears the luggage item, the SSIA system may receive information associated with the pass or fail of the luggage item screening. The SSIA systemmay update handler devices and/or scanning devices, for sorting and handling the luggage item, as described in relation to. In the environment of a cruise ship, the luggage item, if failed the security screening, may be transferred to security screening deviceB for the second-phase security analysis of the second vehicle of travel. Once the luggage item is cleared by the second-phase security screening, the SSIA systemmay update the routing information for delivery of the luggage item to the room or cabin independently of or in parallel with the passenger.

112 The trigger for obtaining the follow-along security image and data may be from an air carrier flight manifest, a B-Type message, such as a terminating BSM, scanning of an IATA license plate, or access the travel data of the PNR. However, the process herein intends to transfer files without the need to send PII of the passenger. Optionally, the passenger's name may be sent because it is visible in the originating hardcopy bag tag, bingo tag or other markers that may be placed on a luggage item by an airline carrier.

1670 2672 1670 If the analysis of the follow-along security image and data cannot clear the luggage item through the ISSSA, then the security screening deviceB of the ISSSA may scan the luggage item for prohibited items, which can range from weapons and explosives to items that are not allowed on the ship, like alcohol or irons, by way of non-limiting examples. If a luggage item triggers an alarm during the X-ray scan, it is set aside for further inspection. This usually involves a hand-search by security personnel. In addition to the initial luggage item screening, passengers and their carry-on items are also screened before boarding the ship. This is usually done using walk-through metal detectors and X-ray machines like those used in airport security checkpoints.

190 100 2450 190 2410 2672 190 2410 24 FIG. The SSIA systemmay interface with systemto update the LIB() with the current security screening status. The SSIAmay trigger the government location delivery and pickup data generator, so that when the IATA bag tag is scanned, the trusted custody handler may know to take the luggage item to the location of the security screening deviceB if the luggage item failed to clear. Alternately, the SSIAmay trigger the government location delivery and pickup data generator, so that when the IATA bag tag is scanned, the trusted custody handler may know to take the luggage item to load on the next flight or to terminate the airport if the luggage item cleared customs.

190 14 14 FIGS.C-E Additionally, the SSIAmay update the expanded B-Type message described in relation to. The security clearance status of the luggage item may be updated in the expanded B-Type message.

1680 1680 1675 1680 1670 2670 1670 1670 1670 26 FIG.A The security screening procedures in railway systems (i.e., SMTSB) vary widely depending on the country and the specific rail service. The SMTSD may include one or more servers or computer systemC. The SMTSB may include an ISSSB (i.e., ISSS) that employs some form of security screening for both passengers boarding trains and their luggage. In some cases, ISSSB might involve random checks where security personnel select bags for screening using handheld metal detectors or portable X-ray devices. In other cases, all bags might be screened by the ISSSB using stationary X-ray machines like those used in airports and cruise terminals. In high-security situations or for international train services, more thorough screening procedures may be employed. The ISSSB may use explosive detection systems, sniffer dogs, or even CT scanners. Additionally, passengers may also be screened using metal detectors or body scanners.

1680 1680 1670 1680 1675 The security screening procedures in a bus carrier system (i.e., SMTSC) vary widely and governed by the TSA in the United States. The SMTSC may include an ISSSC that employs some form of security screening for both passengers boarding a bus and their luggage. The SMTSC may include one or more servers or computer systemC.

1680 1680 1670 1680 1675 The security screening procedures in a lodging entity (i.e., SMTSD) vary widely and may be defined by self-governance and/or governmental regulations. In one or more embodiments, lodging entities may provide a self-screening security process that may include a third-party screening entity, local police authorities, and hired security guards, for example. The SMTSD may include an ISSSD that employs some form of security screening for both passengers entering a lodging entity and their luggage. In some instances, a passenger and their luggage enter a hotel connected to an airport governed by TSA or other government agency. In some instances, such as the STAR WARS Hotel, at DISNEY, Orlando, Florida, the hotel's guests have direct access to the theme park from the hotel. The SMTSD may include one or more servers or computer systemD.

190 1660 1660 700 1660 2672 2672 7 FIG. The SSIA systemmay include one or more display devicesor computing device. For example, in one or more embodiments, a human in the loop may assist in obtaining files and sending those files to the respective ISSS. The display devicesmay be a standalone display device or a display device that is integrated into a computing device, as described in relation to. In another embodiment, the computing devices with display devicesmay automate the process for obtaining and sending the follow-along security image and data files to a designated workstation (i.e., SS computer stationA). By way of a non-limiting example, the follow-along security image and data files may be sent to an artificial intelligence (AI) engine to process the image and data files for regulations associated with cruise ships, trains, hotels, buses, resorts, or any combination. The AI engine (i.e., SS computer stationA) would auto-generate a signal representative of the results.

190 1650 1655 1660 1650 7 FIG. The SSIA systemmay include one or more servers or computer systemand memory devicesthat may be communicatively coupled wired or wirelessly to the display devices. The one or more servers or computer systemis described in more detail in relation to.

190 1557 The SSIA systemmay include an enterprise messaging system (EMS)to send short message service (SMS) messages on the status and location of luggage items to designated luggage handler's computing devices.

190 1602 The SSIA systemmay receive information from a computing deviceassociated a trigger associated with a registered passenger having a luggage handling service. The registration information may include flight information, such as an airline carrier company, flight information, country, originating airport, itinerary confirmation number or passenger name record (PNR) number and passenger's name, for example. Other registration information that may be entered by the passenger may include information related to the second vehicle of travel. The second vehicle of travel may be for a cruise ship reservation, a train reservation, a bus reservation, or a lodging entity reservation. The information may be collected before the day of travel with the first mode of travel.

190 40 20 22 1 FIG.A The registration information may be used by the SSIA systemto generate routing information from a manifest. In one or more embodiments, the manifest may be for a single second vehicle of travel or multi-carrier second vehicle of travel. In one embodiment, the analysis cannot start until after the FSSMShas completed the security screening imaging process or the air carrierorhas taken off with the luggage item and passenger. In other embodiments, the analysis is triggered by the terminating B-Type message described in.

190 100 190 1680 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay screen luggage items of passengers arriving at a hotel or resort using a flight by an air carrier with or without baggage handling by system. SSIA systemmay alert the SMTSD of any prohibited objects or materials or combination of materials if combined may be hazardous.

190 1680 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay be part of SMTSA and perform analysis for cruise ships of one or more cruise ship companies only.

190 1680 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay be part of SMTSB and perform analysis for trains of one or more railway systems only.

190 1680 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay be part of SMTSC and perform analysis for buses of one or more bus carrier companies only.

190 1680 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay be part of SMTSD and perform analysis for a lodging entity/resort of one or more companies only.

190 10 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay be part of FMTS.

190 In one or more embodiments, SSIA systemmay be a third-party vendor.

The examples described herein are for illustrative and descriptive purposes and should not be limiting in any manner. As should be understood from the description herein, to describe each and every rule and regulation for all modes of transportation or travel around the world is prohibitive.

17 FIG.A 1700 1700 1702 1710 1700 1712 1714 1700 1712 1714 illustrates a GUIA for retrieving at least one security screening image in accordance with an embodiment. The GUIA may include a display windowand data entry tabs or buttonsfor navigation and control. GUIA may include a country tab or buttonand a travel/screening mode tab or button. For example, the GUIA may receive the country from which the second mode of travel may originate. Selecting the country tab or buttonmay cause a drop-down menu or list of countries to be automatically displayed. Selection of a country with a mouse or other user interface enters the country into the system. The travel/screening mode tab or buttonmay list any of the second modes of travel, including lodging entities or resorts, or second modes of transportation identified herein.

1700 The GUIA may receive the type of second mode of travel so that the training data for the regulations can be retrieved for the designated jurisdiction (i.e., country). If there are any states, county, city, provinces, etc., this information may be added. This allows the system to access regulations for all the regulating governing agencies. As described above, training data for a list of prohibited items for the second mode of travel is retrieved according to the country and the government agency.

1700 1716 1650 1700 1718 1718 1700 1720 1700 1722 1722 1724 Since CBP and/or the Coast Guard, for example, allow cruise ships to have additional rules, the GUIA may receive a cruise ship company name via company tab or button. This allows the one or more servers or computer systemto retrieve training data associated with the rules associated with the company for analyzing the screening of the luggage items. The GUIA may receive information related to the originating airport in the originating airport tab or button. Selecting the tab or buttonmay provide a drop-down list of airports that can be selected. The GUIA may include an image selector tab or button. A drop-down list of available images may be listed. Any one image may be selected. The GUIA may include a passenger name tab or button. When the manifest is loaded in the GUI, selecting the passenger's name tab or buttonmay provide a list of passenger's names in the manifest that need their luggage items analyzed for a different mode of travel or different country, for example. The user may select using a mouse or other user interface, a passenger's name. After the passenger's name is selected, either the unique identifier (i.e., OP-BTI digits) is entered in fieldor caused to be retrieved such as from a luggage manifest or field in a stored B-Type message.

17 FIG.B 17 FIG.A 17 FIG.B 17 FIG.A 1700 illustrates the GUIB ofscreening at least one security screening image in accordance with an embodiment. According to one or more embodiments, the possible prohibited object includes weapons, bottles alcohol, irons, and electrical power strips, among other things.is essentially the same asso only the differences will be described.

17 FIG.B 1705 40 1705 5 200 1705 1730 1735 1740 1730 1732 1735 1737 1740 1750 1732 1737 1750 In, a selected imagethat was selected from the memory devices of FSSMSis shown. The imageshows luggage itemwith a printed bag tag (i.e., bag tag). The imageshows an X-ray representation of objects,and, for example. In the example, the objectis annotated with boxto denote that it is a prohibited object, such as alcohol. The objectis annotated with boxto denote that it is a prohibited or hazardous object, such as a weapon. The objectis annotated with boxto denote that it is a prohibited, such as an iron. The boxes,, and, for example, may be annotated by image processing/machine learning autonomously or by a screening.

As for prohibited substances, the information may be obtained using the mass/density calculations by the machine learning process.

According to one or more embodiments, the first mode of travel or first mode of screening may provide a list of hazardous materials identified in their screening. Therefore, when the security screening images are retrieved, a file of detected hazardous material or a materials list may be obtained. For example, some weapons are made by three-dimensional printing. However, bullets that contain gun powder may be present. Accordingly, a list of bullets, gun powder or a combination thereof may be identified.

According to one or more embodiments, the first mode of travel or first mode of screening may provide a list of material or chemicals, which individually are non-hazardous. However, when one or more of certain non-hazardous material or chemical are combined, the resultant solution can become hazardous or explosive, for example.

1700 1760 17 FIG.C According to one or more embodiments, the GUIB may include a control buttonto initiate a search of prohibited objects and materials using a machine learning detection algorithm including machine learning object detection. In one or more embodiments, the screener performs the screening themselves by looking at the images on the screen and comparing the images to prohibited images, for example, as will be described in detail in relation to.

1700 1765 1765 According to one or more embodiments, the GUIB may include an analysis results indicator. In one or more embodiments, the indicatormay allow a user to enter a mark in the manifest of the analysis result representative of one of a security compliance of the luggage item for travel on the second mode of transportation, travel or screening and a non-security compliance of the luggage item for travel on the second mode of transportation, travel, or screening. Accordingly, this information may be communicated to a trusted handler of those luggage items marked as having the security compliance of the second mode of transportation, travel, or screening to bypass subsequent security screening by a second security screening machine system of the second mode of transportation, second mode of travel, or second mode of screening.

In one or more embodiments, those luggage items that pass security screening and are entering from another country to transfer mode of travel, may bypass security screening at the second mode of travel.

Additionally, the passenger may save time in Custom's lines using the Global Entry Mobile application, by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) available on GOOGLE Play Store, APPLE Store or other authorized software sellers for mobile devices. The application requires a traveler to be an active member in the Global Entry Program by CBP. The traveler entering the United States, for example, at one of the ports, will take a selfie which is verified. The user is provided a code to expedite their process through CBP using the code on the application. The same code may be used to also release the luggage item that passed the transfer mode analysis to bypass security on the next travel vehicle. In this instance, the luggage item remains in trusted custody until it is passed to the next travel vehicle.

17 FIG.C 17 FIG.A 1700 1700 1700 1732 1737 1750 illustrates the GUIC ofscreening at least one security screening image by a screener in accordance with an embodiment. GUIC is similar to GUIB so only the differences will be described. In this example, the scanner may have placed the boxes,, and, for example, around the possible prohibited objects using a mouse, finger, or other implement to annotate the image. Other annotations may be added using a touch screen display device.

1700 1726 1727 1727 1726 1700 1728 1726 1728 The GUIC may include, at least one row, a plurality of prohibited objects or substances. The prohibited objects or substancesmay be in the form of an icon or an image. Clicking on any one icon or image in the rowmay provide a drop-down list of other shapes and styles of prohibited objects or substances. The GUIC may include arrowin row. The arrow, when selected, may cause scrolling of the images out of view to show additional images or icons that are prohibited.

1700 1767 1767 The GUIC may include security analysis results indicator selector. In one or more embodiments, the indicator selectormay allow a user to enter a mark in the manifest of the security analysis result representative of one of a security compliance, such as selecting pass, of the luggage item for travel on the second mode of transportation, travel or screening and a non-security compliance, such as selecting fail, of the luggage item for travel on the second mode of transportation, travel, or screening.

18 18 FIGS.A-B 1800 illustrate a flowchart of a methodfor the second mode of travel screening in accordance with an embodiment.

1800 1802 1650 1700 1700 1700 1660 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, displaying, by a computer system, a graphical user interface (GUI)A,B, andC on a display deviceto analyze security screening images from a first mode of transportation requiring security screening of a checked-in luggage item, tagged with a unique identifier, for each passenger traveling on air carriers matching in a manifest for a second mode of travel.

1800 1804 1700 1700 1700 1650 190 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, identifying in the GUIA,B, and/orC by the computer system or serverof system, the unique identifier and a respective passenger's name in the manifest of the passenger traveling on a respective air carrier that has the checked-in luggage item to be re-screened by the second mode of transportation, a second mode of travel or a second mode of screening. The second mode of screening may be independent of the mode of travel or transportation in one or more embodiments.

1800 1806 1700 1700 1700 1650 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, accessing from at least one memory storage device using the GUIA,B, and/orC by the computer system, stored security screening images captured by a first security screening machine system associated with first mode of transportation screening, first mode of travel screening or a first mode of screening of the checked-in luggage item of the passenger.

1800 1808 1700 1700 1700 190 1660 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, displaying in the GUIA,B, and/orC by the computer system or server of system, at least one of the stored screening images of the luggage item of the passenger on at least one display deviceto analyze the accessed at least one stored screening image according to rules and regulations associated with the second mode of travel or screening. In one or more embodiments, the at least one of the stored screening images of contents of the luggage item includes a three-dimensional dimensional representation of objects within the luggage item.

1800 1810 1700 1700 1700 190 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, receiving via the GUIA,B, and/orC by the computer system or server of system, a mark in the manifest of a analysis result representative of one of a security compliance of the luggage item for travel on the second mode of transportation, travel or screening and a non-security compliance of the luggage item for travel on the second mode of transportation, travel or screening so that trusted handling of those luggage items marked as having the security compliance of the second mode of transportation, travel or screening will bypass subsequent security screening by a second security screening machine system of the second mode of transportation, travel or screening.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include updating, by the computer system, the manifest with the IATA license plate or unique identifier.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include accessing, by the computer system, an originating printed bag tag identification (OP-BTI) associated with the checked-in luggage item from one of a computer system associated with the respective airline or a computer system associated with the stored security screening images; and updating, by the computer system, the manifest with the OP-BTI. The OP-BTI may be the IATA license plate, for example.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include receiving, by a second computer system associated with the second mode of transportation or travel, updated reservation information associated with a second mode of transportation or travel for the respective passenger.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include updating, by the second computer system associated with the second mode of transportation or travel, the manifest with the updated reservation information for the second mode of transportation for the passenger.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, in response to acquiring the IATA license plate, by an acquiring device, triggering a communication from the second computing system to the acquiring device with the updated reservation information of the second mode of transportation or travel.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include displaying, on a display device of the acquiring device, the updated reservation information of the second mode of transportation or travel.

1800 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include receiving annotations using the GUI, by the computer system, to highlight at least one object that caused a negative compliance result.

1800 1657 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include electronically sending a message to the owner of the baggage of a positive or negative compliance result for the second mode of transportation or travel. This may be accomplished by the EMS.

1800 1650 21 FIG. According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include including by the computer system, an explanation selected from an array of standardized explanations in the message to the owner of the baggage regarding the negative compliance result. Example messages are shown in.

1800 1660 1650 1657 1660 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include advancing an annotated image of the object that caused the negative compliance result to a security screening entity at the second mode of travel. For example, the screener at display devicemay take a screen shot and communicate the screen shot via the one or more computing systems or serversor EMSor by email. The display devicemay be a touch-sensitive display device or the applications allow the user the interface with the display device with a mouse or other instrument to draw an annotation on the image.

40 190 The FSSMSduring the security screening process may scan the IATA license plate or otherwise obtain the baggage unique identifier using RFID or NFC technology. This can provide an index to the stored images for retrieval by system.

According to one or more embodiments, the bag tag number or IATA license plate is set as a unique identifier and added to the manifest. In one or more embodiments, the unique identifier is the IATA license plate or bag tag number from the B-Type message.

19 FIG. 17 17 FIGS.A-C 1900 1900 1902 1700 1700 1700 1650 1900 1904 1650 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor detecting the presence of a possible prohibited object in accordance with an embodiment. According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, receiving using theA,B, andC GUIS (), by the computing system, a country of origin. According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, receiving, by the computer system, a selection of a type of the second mode of screening and loading training data of objects.

1700 1700 1700 1700 1700 1700 1700 1700 1700 17 17 FIGS.A-C 17 17 FIGS.A-C 17 17 FIGS.A-C In one or more embodiments, the training data may include a list of objects that are prohibited for the second mode of travel. The screener would inspect the displayed image using theA,B, andC GUIS () to see if any of the prohibited objects are seen. In one or more embodiments, theA,B, andC GUI () may display a list of prohibited objects along a border of theA,B, andC GUIS (), such as a top border, a bottom border, a right border, or any combination thereof.

1900 1906 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, loading training data of prohibited objects associated with the regulation of the regulating government agency and, if any, training data of prohibited objects of the second mode of travel company.

By way of non-limiting examples, the training data may include training images of prohibited objects of the regulating government agency and training images of the company of the vehicle of travel.

By way of non-limiting examples, the training data may include mass and density values of prohibited objects by the regulating government agency and mass/density values of prohibited objects by the company of the vehicle of travel.

45 50 45 50 16 FIG. The imaging machinesor() may record the resulting data. The CT scanner (i.e., imaging machinesor) may use this data to create a detailed tomogram of the luggage item and calculate the mass and a density of individual objects in the luggage item based on this tomogram. Hazardous and/or prohibited objects will have their own mass and density. So, if a particular object has mass and/or density that denotes a hazardous or prohibited material or object, the CT scanner warns the operator of this object. However, some objects that are not hazardous on an aircraft because a passenger does not have direct access to it in the cargo hold, are hazardous or prohibited on a cruise ship.

1900 1908 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, performing machine learning of object detection of contents based on the training data of objects. The machine learning algorithm may include, by way of a non-limiting example, convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithms. For example, the CNN algorithms may include region-based CNN (i.e., R-CNN), masked R-CNN, faster R-CNN, and others. Other types of algorithms may include YOLO type algorithms (you only look once), for example.

In one or more embodiments, the machine learning algorithm may be performed in 2D images. In other embodiments, the image data is converted to 3D images to perform mass and density calculations of the tomogram (slice). The calculation may be compared to a range of the mass and density to determine if the values calculated are within the range indicating a possible prohibited object. In one or more embodiments, a prohibited object may be a hazardous object.

1900 1910 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, determining whether a detected object of contents within the luggage item is a possible prohibited object by the rules and regulations associated with the second mode of screening of the second mode of travel.

1900 1912 1700 1700 1700 17 17 FIGS.A-C According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include, at block, displaying an indication of the presence of a possible prohibited object, in response to determining the presence of the possible prohibited object. The GUISA,B, andC () may display an indication of a possible prohibited object such as with a color-coded annotated box, a text alert overlaid on the object in the screen or other visual alarm.

20 FIG. 2000 2000 1655 1650 illustrates a block diagram of programming modulesfor analyzing security screening images according to an embodiment. The programming modulesmay be stored in the one or more memory devicesto be executed by the one or more computing devices or servers.

2000 1650 2000 The one or more programming modulesmay include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The computing devices and/or serversmay include at least one processor and/or hardware to execute instructions of the programming modules.

2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2022 17 17 FIGS.A-C 19 FIG. According to one or more embodiments, the programming modulesmay include a registration module, manifest generator module, unique identifier retriever module, GUI module(), image selector module, analysis module(), and an analysis results communication module.

2002 2002 The registration modulemay include a graphical user interface that allows the passenger to enter the registration data described above. The registration modulemay allow the passenger to login and create an account.

2022 720 722 2022 1657 7 FIG. The security screening analysis results communication modulemay include network interfaces, such as a network interface card to connect (wired or wireless) to a network or other communication conduitsdescribed into communicate with systems of the second mode of travel. The security screening analysis results communication modulemay use the EMSto communicate with the passenger.

2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2020 1660 17 FIG.B The analysis modulemay include one or more of object detector modulessuch as using machine learning algorithms, an annotation module, a 3D generator module, a mass and density calculator module, and pass/fail marker module. As shown in, the annotation module may allow the user to write on the screen with a stylus, finger, mouse, or other implement using a touch sensitive display screen of display device.

21 FIG. 16 FIG. 16 FIG. 2102 2100 1657 20 illustrates a user interfaceon a passenger's mobile deviceconveying information on the status of their luggage items. In this embodiment, an EMS() sends SMS (short message service) messages to passengers on the status and location of their baggage. In this thread of messages, analysis screening occurred while the passenger was in-flight on an air carrier(). The analysis indicated the baggage passed all screening criteria for the cruise line. Therefore, rather than having the passenger pick up their baggage at the destination airport, and then carry them to the cruise terminal (where they are screened a second time), they simply go to their state room on the cruise ship and their bags are already delivered into their room.

This process can provide more efficiency to the cruise employees because the baggage handling team may be a separate entity, which can confirm any changes to the cabin room before delivering the luggage item to the room. This can further provide a beneficial travel experience for the passenger to not worry about lugging luggage to the wrong room or standing in long lines to have their baggage checked in.

21 FIG. The system is programmed to provide an explanation selected from an array of standardized explanations in the message to the owner of the baggage regarding the negative compliance result. This is shown by the example messages of.

The embodiments herein may include a method and system for modal analysis of security screening images of a first mode of travel. The method includes accessing, by a computer system, a unique identifier associated with a checked-in luggage item from a computer system associated with the first mode of travel. The method includes displaying, by the computer system, a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device to analyze security screening images from a first mode of travel requiring security screening of a checked-in luggage item, tagged with a unique identifier, for each passenger traveling on air carriers matching in a manifest for a second mode of travel.

The method may include identifying in the GUI, by the computer system, the unique identifier and a respective passenger's name in the manifest of the passenger traveling on a respective air carrier that has the checked-in luggage item to be re-screened by the second mode of travel. The method includes accessing from at least one memory storage device using the GUI, by the computer system, stored security screening images captured by a first security screening machine system associated with first mode of travel screening of the checked-in luggage item of the passenger.

The method may include displaying in the GUI, by the computer system, at least one of the stored screening images of the luggage item of the passenger on at least one display device to analyze the accessed at least one stored security screening image according to at least one of regulations and rules associated with the second mode of travel.

The system may include at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, configured to cause the at least one processor to: access a unique identifier associated with a checked-in luggage item from a computer system associated with the first mode of travel. The processor may display a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device to analyze security screening images from a first mode of travel requiring security screening of a checked-in luggage item. These screening images may be tagged with the unique identifier, for each passenger traveling on air carriers matching in a manifest for a second mode of travel.

2102 The processor may also identify in the GUI the unique identifier and a respective passenger's name in the manifest of the passenger traveling on a respective air carrier that has the checked-in luggage item to be re-screened by the second mode of travel. The processor may access from at least one memory storage device, using the GUI, stored security screening images captured by a first security screening machine system associated with first mode of travel screening of the checked-in luggage item of the passenger. The processor may display in the GUIat least one of the stored screening images of the luggage item of the passenger on at least one display device to analyze the accessed at least one stored security screening image according to at least one of regulations and rules associated with the second mode of travel.

22 FIG. 2200 2200 2200 2200 2202 212 136 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor calculating bag fees in accordance with an embodiment. This methodmay be performed at any time. However, the methodmay be performed as part of a check-in process for a luggage item. The methodmay include, at block, scanning, by a scanning device, the O-BTI or the IATA license plate, markeror MK.

2200 2204 122 2206 The methodmay include, at block, displaying the O-BTI on a display device associated with the scanning device or a computing device; and at block, receiving passenger and airline information from the passenger manifest record associated with the O-BTI or the luggage manifest record associated with the O-BTI. By way of a non-limiting example, the information may include the airline name and/or airline code. The airline information may include the baggage fees for checked in luggage items. In one or more embodiments, the luggage manifest record may indicate a baggage fee or a baggage fee waiver. For example, a passenger manifest record may indicate a frequent flyer number, which waives the passenger's fees for checking in a luggage item on a flight with the air carrier associated with the frequent flyer number. In one or more embodiments, the first luggage item may have a $0 baggage fee. However, each additional luggage item may have an additional checked baggage fee in addition to additional fees for over the weight limit amount associated with an air carrier. Each air carrier has different rates. Furthermore, a passenger may be given a preferred baggage fee.

2200 2208 2210 122 The methodmay include, at block, receiving an image of the luggage item. For example, using the scanning device or an imaging device, an image of the luggage item to be checked in for a flight may be captured; and may, at block, be displayed on a display screen of the scanning device, imaging device or computing device.

2200 2212 200 212 136 2200 200 212 136 200 212 136 1 FIG.B The methodmay include, at block, verifying the luggage item such as by comparing the passenger's name on the IATA bag tag, markeror MKwith the passenger's name in the luggage manifest record. The methodmay also verify the luggage item by comparing the image of the luggage item described, in, with the image of the luggage item for check-in. This process may use the originating hardcopy bag tag, markeror MKfor check-in for the return flight. For integrity, the verification of the luggage item for the return flight may use for identification the originating hardcopy bag tag, markeror MKcombined with the visual confirmation using an image of the luggage item. This may limit or prevent swapping of originating IATA bag tag or marker from another luggage item for use on someone else's luggage item.

200 212 212 136 Since each air carrier has discretion on certain fields entered on the IATA bag tagand marker, if a passenger's name is not present, additional passenger's identity validation may be required. Still further, if at the time of check out the IATA bag tag, markerand/or MKare missing or damaged such that verification data cannot be accessed, then an alternate validation process may be used to access the luggage item manifest record for return flight data or other return travel data.

2200 2214 122 2216 122 The methodmay include, at block, receiving the weight of a piece of luggage item. By way of a non-limiting example, a weighing device may communicate with the scanning device and/or computing deviceto receive the weight of the luggage item to be checked in. Once the weight is received, the weight may be displayed, at block. In one or more embodiments, the scanning device or computing devicemay include a graphical user interface with a data entry field to enter the weight of the luggage item.

2200 2218 122 2200 2220 The methodmay include, at block, calculating, by a processor of the computing device, a luggage item fee based on the weight. The methodmay include, at block, determining an airline carrier luggage item fee or mode of travel fee for the luggage item. There may be other fees that need to be determined based on country.

2200 2222 122 The methodmay include, at block, calculating, by a processor of the computing device, a total luggage fee.

The fees may be paid by the passenger in a variety of ways. For example, the fees may be charged to the room and paid by the passenger at checkout.

In one or more embodiments, trained personnel may come to a passenger's cabin to start the check-in process, such as weighing the luggage item, verifying the luggage item and taking payment for the baggage fees.

In one or more embodiments, the baggage fees may be charged to the passenger's account associated with a baggage delivery and handling service.

22 FIG. 122 148 Although the acts described inmay be performed by a scanning device or computing device, one or more of the blocks may be performed by server.

23 FIG. 2300 200 212 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor checking in a luggage item when the IATA bag tagand/or markerare missing in accordance with an embodiment. Furthermore, the passenger's name may be missing on the bag tag or the marker.

2300 200 212 2302 2302 2300 2304 2302 2300 2306 The methodmay include determining whether the originating hardcopy bag tagand/or marker′ is missing, at block. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodends, at block. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay proceed to block. The luggage item's feature information (i.e., features in an image) may be received to reconcile the luggage with the passenger in the absence of bag tags or markers.

2300 122 148 2306 The methodmay include receiving, by the computing deviceor server, one of the passenger biometric information or an identification of the passenger associated with luggage item, at block. The passenger may present a valid driver's license, passport, or real ID. Before any passenger can check-in for their flight, their identity must be verified. The Real ID Act of 2005 enacted by Congress will require passengers to have a license issued by a state to be compatible with the requirements thereof. For example, a license or identification card compatible with the Act of 2005 can include a star in the upper right-hand corner.

The driver's license may be scanned to validate the driver's license. Another validation method to authenticate the instruments may be used to authenticate a person's identity.

3180 31 FIG. The method may use the passenger's valid picture identification (i.e., driver's license, passport, or other valid identification instrument) to initiate the check-in process of the luggage item with a trusted custody handler. The passenger identification may be verified using verification process, for example, and as described in relation to, or other verification processes.

2300 2308 122 148 151 1 FIG.D The methodmay include, at block, accessing a database, by the computing deviceor server, that includes one of a lodging entity manifest or a flight manifest during a check-in window for a departing flight to match a passenger's name to the passenger biometric information. By way of a non-limiting example, a passenger may check-in themselves during a check-in window. In other instances, the passenger may not check themselves in for a return flight. In, the flight manifestmay be searched for a match of the passenger's name to verify they have a return flight, for example. In another embodiment, the return flight information may be in a lodging entity manifest or other manifest, for example.

2300 2310 The methodmay include, at block, obtaining a PNR number to access a passenger return flight information. In some instance, a passenger may have a PNR number texted or provided to a trusted custody handler or luggage handling personnel for pickup and delivery of the luggage item to a designated air travel carrier. By way of a non-limiting example, a PNR number on an itinerary, e-ticket or boarding pass may be entered manually into an application by the trusty custody handler or luggage handling personnel. Alternately, the text of the PNR number may be converted into machine-encoded text from an image of the itinerary, e-ticket or boarding pass, for example. The PNR number may be used to access return flight information, if not already available.

2300 122 148 2312 2314 100 The methodmay include validating, by the computing deviceor server, the passenger biometric information, at block. When a ticket for a return flight is found, the passenger biometric information can be completed by the verification process, at block. The systemconfirms that the passenger has a reservation for a return flight. The search for the match may be narrowed by receiving information from the passenger or a lodging entity manifest, such as a cruise ship manifest. For example, the passenger may indicate the air carrier for the return flight.

2314 2300 122 148 2316 2314 2300 2450 2318 If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodmay include sending, by the computing deviceor server, an invalid message to a mobile communication device of the passenger, at block. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay include marking the LIBand the luggage item with a marker instrument, at block. The marker instrument may be a pre-printed unique identifier that may be affixed to the luggage item and the unique identifier logged into the LIB. The pre-printed unique identifier may be a barcode that can be scanned by a scanning device or acquiring device. In this instance, the check-in of the luggage item can take place anytime within the 24-hour window by scanning the unique identifier to access the return flight data.

The marking instrument may be a tracker such as an AIRTAG by APPLE Inc. The tracker may be a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a GSM tracker or another tracker. The tracker may be programmed with a unique identifier of the passenger or the luggage item that can be pinged when the luggage item needs to be checked into a return flight in the 24-hour window, for example.

2300 122 148 2320 The methodmay include updating or creating, by the computing deviceor server, the luggage item manifest record with the current return flight information and the marker instrument unique identifier, at block.

2300 122 148 2322 The methodmay include checking in, by the computing deviceor server, luggage item using return flight data in the unlocked luggage item manifest record, at block. The unique identifier may be used to unlock the return flight data.

212 136 In one or more embodiments, the luggage item manifest record may be unlocked by one of 1) scanning the IATA barcode of the license plate in the originating hardcopy bag tag; 2) scanning the IATA barcode of the license plate of the marker′; or 3) scanning a MKwith the IATA barcode of the license plate of the originating hardcopy bag tag, provided that the IATA bag tag, the marker or the MK do not appear to have been tampered with.

212 136 In one or more embodiments, the luggage item manifest record may be unlocked by the passenger biometric information and one of 1) scanning the IATA barcode of the license plate of the originating hardcopy bag tag; 2) scanning the IATA barcode of the license plate of the marker′; or 3) scanning a MKwith the IATA barcode of the license plate of the originating hardcopy bag tag, provided that the IATA bag tag, the marker or the MK do not appear to have been tampered with.

In one or more embodiments, the passenger's biometric data may include fingerprint data, retina scan data, and/or facial recognition data.

The passenger's biometric data may be linked to PII data such as a passenger driver's license data, passport data and other personal identifiable information that can be used to validate the passenger's identity.

24 FIG. 2400 2400 100 136 136 2450 illustrates a block diagram of LIB programming modulesin accordance with an embodiment. The LIBmay be accessed through the key fob generated by the systemfrom the paper originating hardcopy bag tag, printed instrument having at least a portion of the hardcopy bag tag information printed thereon and/or a MK, wherein the MKmay be created from the LIB. In one or more embodiments, the printed bag tag may be e-printed using an RFID device that is IATA compatible.

2450 2450 2450 The LIBis a universal luggage item brain that can be used outside of the airport computing infrastructure but includes an air carrier or an IATA compatible linking index key, for example, for use inside of the airport computing infrastructure. The LIBmay include the same information as the universal or expanded B-Type message but uses a different coding schema than the expanded B-Type message. Information from the LIBmay be provided to create fields of the expanded B-Type message for communications using wired or wireless communication protocols including one or more of mobile communication, cellular communication, satellite communications, near field communications, long range wireless communications, Ethernet communications or Internet Protocols.

2450 14 14 FIGS.C-E 29 30 FIGS.- The LIBmay link to information as described in relation toand.

2400 2402 15 136 2450 200 212 136 1 FIG.B The LIB programming modulesmay include luggage item feature data storing module, which when executed causes luggage item feature data to be stored in memory and associated with the luggage item record. Luggage item feature data may be captured by an imaging device as described inor a mobile communication deviceand added as part of the luggage item feature data or a passenger's (owner) profile. The luggage item feature data may use image recognition technology to identify a luggage item. This may be used for example, if the bag tag or marker becomes missing or damaged at any point of the luggage items travel journey or for other reasons. In one or more embodiments, if the IATA bag tag, marker, or MKappear to have been tampered with, the feature data (image data) in the LIBmay be used to detect tampering with the IATA bag tag, markeror MKwhere the expected IATA license plate or other unique identifier does not match the luggage item image.

2400 2404 1 FIG.B The LIB programming modulesmay include IATA license plate store module, which when executed causes the 10-digit IATA license plate to be stored. The IATA license plate may be captured by any processes described herein and subsequently reconciled as the luggage item terminates the airport. By way of a non-limiting example, the IATA license plate may be acquired from a data field of a communication signal representative of the terminating BSM. The IATA license plate may be acquired by image data that is converted to machine-encoded text. The IATA license plate may be acquired from scanned data of an IATA barcode encoding the IATA license plate. The IATA license plate number may be acquired by a radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader or a near field communication (NFC) identification reader, as described in more detail in relation to.

2400 2406 100 2450 The LIB programming modulesmay include a location data capture module, which when executed causes location data from meta data shared by the scanning or acquiring device, each time the luggage item is scanned to be captured and stored. The systemmay include acquiring devices, which when acquiring the IATA license plate such as by scanning the barcode, may provide a signal of a scan trigger to capture the location data by the LIB.

2400 2408 112 112 2450 1 FIG.B The LIB programming modulesmay include location delivery and pickup data generator, which when executed causes delivery and pickup locations to which the luggage item is to be picked up and delivered as part of its travel experience to be generated based on at least one of the terminating BSM, manifest of a next travel vehicle, lodging entity, or travel data associated with travel data of the PNR. The travel data of the PNRmay be accessible by accessing the BSM associated with the originating hardcopy bag tag in response to acquiring the IATA license plate as described in. The delivery locations may be developed in two stages. The first stage may be from the manifest MX and terminating BSM. The second stage may be upon activation of the acquiring IATA license plate number using the IATA barcode, for example, to activate the electronic LIB. The delivery pickup and drop off may be developed in stages, such as for each leg of travel. Some stages may overlap.

2400 The LIB programming modulesmay include machine learning (ML) algorithms or artificial intelligence (AI) to create the delivery, pickup, and handling instructions. By way of a non-limiting example, the ML algorithms may include decision tree models. The decision tree models may be based on terminating BSM data, non-terminating BSM data, manifest data, next vehicle of travel, flight origination, country of origination, destination of arrival, government regulations, and more.

2400 2410 2410 2410 100 The LIB programming modulesmay include government location delivery and/or pickup data generator, which when executed causes generation of delivery and/or pickup locations to which the luggage item is to be picked up and/or delivered government required security screening check locations to as part of its travel experience. The government locations may include Coast Guard locations and/or Customs and Border Protection locations. The government location delivery and/or pickup data generatormay be used for those registered passengers that may use the security screening integrated assistant service. In other embodiments, the government location delivery and/or pickup data generatormay be used for internal processing by system.

2410 2410 In one or more embodiments, a terminating airport may be the first customs airport a passenger and their luggage item will encounter. In such an embodiment, the data from the terminating BSM may indicate the origination airport to be an international flight. Alternately, the machine-encoded text of the image data from the passenger may indicate that the flight originated out of the country. This data may be analyzed by the government location delivery and/or pickup data generatorto determine the origin of the originating flight to be an international flight. In this instance, the government location delivery and/or pickup data generatorwould determine the Customs and Border Protection locations and/or security procedures for clearing the luggage item, based on country of entry and/or country origin and/or mode of travel.

2410 In one or more embodiments, the government location delivery and/or pickup data generatormay include a trusted custody handler picking up and handling the luggage item for check-in for the return flight on a designated air travel carrier or other travel carrier.

26 26 FIGS.A-B Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the trusted custody handler may receive instruction independently of the LIB. As described in relation to.

2408 2400 The location delivery and/or pickup data generator, when executed may also communicate with a lodging entity or a next vehicle of travel to determine whether a room or cabin is available for delivery of the luggage item. In other words, location delivery and/or pickup data generatormay communicate with the reservations system of the lodging entity or a next vehicle of travel to determine whether the room or cabin is available, for example. In other example, the reservations system for the next vehicle of travel may indicate a bus terminal or train station, etc.

By way of a non-limiting example, if a luggage item can bypass security screening by a cruise ship, then the luggage item may remain in the trusted custody of a trusted custody handler or vendor until the room to which the luggage item is to be delivered is ready. In other examples, the luggage item that cannot bypass security screening by the next mode of travel may be delivered to the next mode of travel security screening location, screened for security and then delivered to the room or cabin by the trusted custody handler.

2400 2416 Certain data fields may be independently locked, such as return flight information and the passenger's personal identifiable information (PII). The luggage item brain programming modulesmay include a luggage item validator, which when executed causes one or more of the locked data fields to be unlocked. By way of a non-limiting example, the luggage item brain may be configured to unlock the return flight information based on the luggage item feature data and/or verification of its owner's identity. For example, the return flight information is unlocked by scanning or acquiring the IATA license plate during a check-in window by a trusted custody handler.

100 By way of a non-limiting example, the scanning or acquiring may be accomplished by a designated machine with a registered serial number, media access control (MAC) address, or other unique identifier registered to a trusted custody handler and/or system. However, if the paper IATA bag tag or paper markers are missing or the passenger's name is not printed on these paper instruments, then the luggage item may need to be validated by verifying the passenger's identity, for example.

2400 2418 142 2430 The luggage item brain programming modulesmay include a luggage item tracking module, which when executed causes the captured location data and pickup data to be logged. When the bag tagis scanned or acquired, a log of the locations traveled by the luggage item whether for pickup or delivery may be displayed by the display interfaceon a display device.

2400 2422 100 The luggage item brain programming modulesmay include a passenger manifest record link module, which when executed accesses a passenger's personal identifiable information to validate/verify the identity of the passenger as the owner of the luggage item. The PII may be provided directly from the passenger in some instances or stored in a manifest of or accessible by system. Once the passenger is validated/verified, the IATA license plate or other unique identifier may be used to access the return flight data to check-in the luggage item in a secure manner.

2400 2424 175 175 100 175 175 1 FIG.B The luggage item brain programming modulesmay include a tracker identifier interface, which when executed interfaces with a wireless tracking device() affixed to the luggage item to receive communications with location data from the wireless tracking deviceor a network device within the system. In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking devicemay communicate over cellular, GSM or other long range wireless communication systems using compatible communication protocols. In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking devicemay communicate over short range communication protocols.

2424 2426 The tracker identifier interfacemay include programming instructions, which when executed causes the capture and storage of received location informationfrom the designed tracking device to determine or estimate a general location of the luggage item based on the received location information.

The luggage item with no prior bag tags attached generally cannot be checked-in. For a luggage item to be checked-in, the passenger may need to be validated/verified. Proof of the purchase of a return flight needs to be determined. Additionally, locked fields of the luggage item's LIB may need to be unlocked.

By way of a non-limiting example, the passenger may arrive without checked in luggage items or need to start the check-in process for a new luggage item entering the travel journey process for the next leg of travel or the return home. In this instance, a new LIB may be generated starting with verifying the identity of the passenger.

2400 2430 122 148 15 The luggage item brain programming modulesmay include a display interface, which when executed includes a graphical user interface to display information stored in the LIB on a display device connected to or integrated with a scanning device, acquiring device, computing deviceor server. In one or more embodiments, the mobile communication deviceor other personal communication device of the passenger may include a graphical user interface to receive (luggage) tracking log information and/or luggage feature data.

26 FIG.A 2600 illustrates a methodA for file handling for an integrated security screening process of luggage items that need to be processed through a security screening station in accordance with an embodiment. The Integrated Security Screening Station (ISSS) 2670 may include CBP, Coast Guard, TSA, Custom government entities at a border crossing, such as airports, trains, buses, or dockside, private security screening entities for cruise ships, and private security screening entities for hotels, for example.

The processes described herein may allow security images and data to be transferred between government-to-government entities, business-to-business entities, and government-to-business entities without passing PII data by using, for example, a B-Type message, an IATA license plate and/or PNR number.

2600 2602 2670 The methodA may include receiving, by a processor, a trigger, at. The trigger may be based on information from an airline flight manifest for passengers exiting an air travel carrier. This is an example, for an international flight, where all passengers may be required to be processed by the ISSS, such as CBP, for example. The trigger may be based on information from a cruise ship manifest for passengers disembarking a cruise ship travel carrier. The trigger may be based on a travel carrier crossing a border and the designated border control government agency requires a security screening of the luggage items to cross the border. The passenger may be on a train and the luggage item checked in under security protocols entering a different country. An example system that different uses security protocols is described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,366,293, titled “COMPUTER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING SECURITY SCREENING,” to Applicant Synapse Technology Corporation.

The trigger may be based on information from a cruise ship manifest for passengers exiting an air travel carrier and transferring to a cruise ship as the next vehicle of travel. The trigger may be based on information from a train manifest for passengers exiting an air travel carrier and transferring to a train as the next vehicle of travel. The trigger may be based on information from a bus manifest for passengers exiting an air travel carrier and transferring to a bus as the next vehicle of travel. The trigger may be based on information from a hotel or resort (i.e., lodging entity) manifest for passengers exiting an air travel carrier and transferring to a lodging entity as the next vehicle of travel.

100 The trigger may be based on a manifest maintained by systemfor passengers registered by a luggage pickup and delivery service for delivery home or another address.

114 The file handling for an integrated security screening process of luggage items may rely on the security screening images taken of a luggage item when the first-mode of travel uses an air travel carrier. The image(s) and related data by advanced scanning technologies like CT (Computed Tomography) scanners (i.e., CT imaging machine) can provide a more detailed, 3D image(s) of the bag's (i.e., luggage item) contents. These images and related data may be used for other next vehicles of travel when the custody of the luggage item remains in compliance for maintaining security protocols so that the luggage item may be handed off from one vehicle of travel to the next vehicle to travel by analyzing the shared images for designated prohibited items for the next vehicle of travel. Additionally, different countries use different regulations on the amount of currency or other items being brought into a country. These are but a few examples and to describe each and every regulation between the United States and any other country is prohibitive.

2670 A luggage item remaining inside of an airport infrastructure is considered to maintain it security status if handled by the trusted airport custody procedures. For example, the luggage item was not routed to the carousel and/or left unattended. However, luggage items leaving a terminating airport for the purposes of transferring to another vehicle of travel, for example, can be transferred to a trusted custody luggage handler to maintain the luggage item secure so that the luggage item can be processed using an ISSS, described in more detail below.

2606 2600 100 2600 2608 At block, the methodA may include obtaining, by a processor, a security screening image using the IATA license plate, passenger's name and/or PNR number match obtained from a B-Type message, an airflight manifest, service manifest, and/or other next vehicle of travel manifest (i.e., cruise ship manifest, train manifest, bus manifest, or lodging entity manifest). The service manifest may be a manifest created and maintained by systemfor baggage delivery and handling to a home address, office address, or other designated address from a terminating airport, for a registered passenger. The methodA may include assembling, by a processor, a communication with a security screening image for a luggage item using B-Type message, IATA license plate, passenger's name, PNR number without additional PII, or any combination thereof, at block.

2600 2612 2670 2670 2670 2606 2608 2612 190 16 FIG. The methodA may include, at block, communicating, by a processor, the assembled message to an ISSS. The message may be communicated over an Intranet or Internet using wired or wireless communication protocols. The message may be transported over a public utility communication system, satellite communication system or cellular communication system. The ISSSmay receive the message and perform the security screening according to the government agency regulations for the border and vehicle of travel. In some instances, the ISSSmay be controlled by a private business entity such as a hotel chain or resort. Blocks,andmay be performed by system, described in relation to, in one or more embodiments.

2672 2670 2672 2672 By way of a non-limiting example, the communication of the assembled message may be received by a Security Screening (SS) computer stationA of the ISSS. The image and data in the assembled message may be a follow-along security image and data. The first screening may include screening a follow-along security image and/or data of the assembled message. If the first screening is not passed, the luggage item may be re-screened using a security screening deviceB and using securing screening regulation associated with the location of security screening deviceB.

2670 For the passenger and the luggage item to proceed, the luggage item needs to be cleared. The image and related data used to clear the luggage item through ISSSmay be a follow-along security image and/or data.

2670 2670 2672 2670 This same image and data tagged with the IATA license plate, passenger's name and/or PNR number may follow the luggage item through its travel journey for other ISSSor until trusted custody is broken. However, for a next vehicle travel, if the current follow-along security image and/or data does not clear the ISSSaccording to the rules or regulation for the next vehicle, the luggage item is rescreened by the security screening deviceB of the ISSS. However, the follow-along security image and/or data may be available until the security custody is completed such as the luggage item is delivered to a cabin in a cruise ship or a room in a lodging entity; and/or delivered to a train station or bus station and placed on board the next vehicle of travel.

26 FIG.A 2672 2672 2672 In, the SS computer stationA and security screening deviceB are shown side by side. However, these two entities may be at different locations. In such an embodiment, a trusted handler may receive those luggage items marked as not cleared or not passed and deliver them to another location where the security screening deviceB is housed.

The marker may include the 10-digit IATA license plate of the originating bag tag and other BSM information such as the passenger's name. In one or more embodiments, the 10-digit IATA license plate of the originating bag tag may be a primary key to access return flight information, the LIB or the universal bag tag, described herein.

2600 2672 2672 2624 2600 2626 2626 190 The methodA may include receiving, by a processor, one of clearance or not cleared indications from the SS computer stationA or the security screening deviceB, at block. The methodA may include updating, by a processor, the handler devices and/or scanning devices with routing information associated with the IATA bag tag or marker to identify where the luggage item should go next, at block. The updating performed, at block, may be performed by system, by a computer system associated with a baggage handling system in the airport infrastructure, other vendor assigned the task to update messaging in the airport infrastructure, a computer associated with other travel carriers for sending clearing luggage items, or other vendor assigned the task to update messaging outside of the airport infrastructure. The luggage item, if not cleared, may not be able to enter the baggage handling system, be transported to the next leg of travel, out of the airport or out of the ISSS, for example. The scanner and baggage handler devices may scan for the IATA license plate or bingo tag for baggage handling instructions. The baggage handling instructions may be embedded in B-Type messages.

100 In the scenario where the luggage items of an entire air carrier are checked, some passengers and luggage items that are cleared will leave the airport, wherein the airport code was designated as a terminating airport code. Furthermore, the luggage item when leaving the airport may be handled by systemand status information may be stored in the LIB of the luggage item.

2670 In another scenario, a passenger and their luggage item may board another plane to a destination point. In one or more embodiments, the luggage item terminating the airport from screening by the ISSSmay be transferred using trusted custody to a cruise ship, train, or bus, according to the sorted terminating B-Type messages.

2624 2600 2630 26 FIG.B From block, the methodA may proceed to, block.

26 FIG.B 2600 illustrates a methodB for luggage item status reporting and handing for the integrated security screening process of luggage items, after being processed through an ISSS, in accordance with an embodiment.

2600 2630 2630 2600 2630 The methodB may include determining, by a processor, at block, whether a trusted custody handler scans the bag tag or bingo marker on the luggage item by acquiring the originating IATA license plate or other unique identifier. If the determination, by a processor, at block, is “NO,” the methodB may loop back to the beginning of blockto wait for the scan. In one or more embodiments, the scan acquires data of the originating hardcopy of the bag tag or marker. The acquired (scan) data is converted into a digital BTI. If the scan is image data, the image data is converted to machine-encoded text.

2630 2600 2632 136 190 190 15 FIG. If the determination, by a processor, at block, is “YES,” the methodB may cause, by a processor, a clearance handling marker of clearance status to be generated or displayed on the scanning device associated with the IATA license plate, at block. An example clearance handling marker (i.e., MK) is shown in. The SSIA systemmay receive indication of pass/cleared or fail/not cleared. The indication may trigger the SSIA systemto cause the programming of the handling devices and/or scanning devices with pass/cleared or fail/not cleared and/or next routing information. The routing information may be based on various information including B-Type messages, PNR travel information accessed by the PNR number, manifest information, or any combination thereof.

136 The clearance handling marker may include delivery location data from the LIB, room or cabin data, or other instructions for secure handling of the luggage item from the terminating airport to the next vehicle of travel. However, in other examples, the MKmay include a unique identifier and a symbol or icon representative of pass/cleared or fail/not cleared security indicator.

Other markers may be used. For example, if the luggage item is being delivered home for a registered passenger, a home icon may be displayed with a check mark indicating clearance followed by a home address or building address representative of the delivery address.

2600 2634 2634 2600 2672 2760 2672 2670 The methodB may include determining, by a processor, whether the contents of the luggage item passed the ISSS, at block. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodB may include performing a luggage handling process to bypass the security screening deviceB of the ISSS. In other words, the luggage item requires no further security screening for the mode of travel. The follow-along security image and/or data analyzed by the SS computer stationA cleared the luggage item for departure from the ISSS. When the luggage item is cleared, the luggage item may be sorted based on additional routing information. For example, the cleared luggage item may be terminating a travel carrier or an airport without further service. In this example, the programmed additional routing information may indicate the routing of the luggage item to a carousel or other terminating station for luggage items to be picked up by their owners at a designated location.

100 In another example, the cleared luggage item may be terminating a travel carrier or an airport with further service. In this example, the programmed additional routing information may indicate the routing of the luggage item to a designated area in an airport or travel carrier infrastructure for luggage items to be picked up by luggage handlers associated with systemand delivered to another location according to service instructions. The service instruction may be delivery to a home address, an office address, or other designated address.

2670 In another example, the cleared luggage item may be transferring travel carriers, such as from one airplane to the next airplane. In this instance, the programmed additional routing information may indicate this type of information. In this instance, the luggage item may travel independently from ISSSto the next airplane marked as cleared.

In another example, the cleared luggage item may be transferring from one vehicle of travel to the next vehicle of travel where the vehicles of travels are different vehicles of travel. For example, from an air carrier to a cruise ship, train, bus, or lodging entity. In this instance, the programmed additional routing information may indicate this type of information including a location address for drop off. In the case of a cruise ship or lodging entity, additional routing information may include a room number or cabin number.

2634 2600 2638 2672 2760 2760 If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodB may include, at block, performing a luggage handling process to transfer the luggage item to the security screening deviceB of the ISSSfor further security screening and processing according to the mode of travel associated with the ISSS.

2640 2600 2640 2600 2644 190 2640 2600 2642 At block, the methodB may include determining, by a processor, whether the luggage item is for a listed, such as for a registered passenger associated with a passenger manifest of a next vehicle of travel or associated with a manifest for delivery to a home address, office address, or other designated address. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the methodB may end, at block. This may be the case when systemprocesses the entire plane. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodB may include updating the LIB with the current status and location of the luggage item, at block, and activate the LIB for continued luggage item handling and delivery.

15 FIG. 2670 2672 Returning again to the marker in, the luggage item may be handled by a trusted custody handler. When the luggage item arrives from the airport using the trusted custody handler to the ISSS, for example, the luggage item may be processed by the SS computer stationA with the most current follow-along security image and data associated with the IATA license plate, passenger's name and/or PNR number without the need to provide any other PII.

25 FIG. 31 FIG. 2510 2500 2550 3120 2550 3180 3180 illustrates graphical user interfaceon a mobile communication devicecapturing a passenger identification(i.e., identification instrument) in accordance with an embodiment. After the image of the passenger identificationis captured, the image may be sent to a verification process. An example, verification processis described in more detail in relation to.

The verification process may include the passenger taking a selfie and sending the selfie using an approved application to receive a verification code. An example verification process using a selfie as provided for by Global Entry Mobile. In other embodiments, the verification process may include other facial recognition services that can verify the passenger's identity using a camera-enabled or video-enable computing device to capture a screen shot of the passenger's face and process the face through facial recognition approved algorithms. In other embodiments, the verification process may use an identification scanner such as used by TSA to scan and validate driver's licenses or identification cards to precheck those passenger approved for TSA PreCheck®.

B-Type messages are customized by airline carriers based on requirements provided the B-Type messages are compatible with IATA rules, SITA procedures or another B-Type message communicator.

The inventor has determined that an expanded B-Type message may be generated with the return flight information and the lodging entity information as well as other modes of travel. The lodging entity information may include a building name or number, an address, and/or a room number. In one or more embodiments, the lodging entity information may include a stateroom, a cabin number, and/or a floor, for example.

The airline's B-Type messages are used by a baggage handling system at airports to track baggage routed and screened through various airports. The baggage handling system includes machine readers to read the printed bag tag as it journeys though the airports. This in essence tracks and locates the baggage while in possession of the airports or airport infrastructure.

However, for travelers that use multiple modes of travel, there are no universal B-Type messages to track and locate or determine where a baggage has been or will go. The inventor has determined that other modes of travel do not have the same ability to track and locate luggage items as passengers travel along a journey using a secure instrument tied to a luggage item and a passenger.

While not wishing to be bound by theory, the machine-readable OP-BTI created for airline travel and facial recognition at a train loading station and/or bus loading station may be used to ensure the passenger has boarded a train or bus with their luggage item in some instances. In other instances, a passenger and luggage item may travel on different trains, for example, or different transport vehicles. For example, a passenger may travel by train, while the luggage travels by truck or van.

The inventor has determined that an airline's B-Type message can be expanded and updated in near real-time outside of the airline and airport facilities so that the expanded B-Type message can be converted and used as a universal B-Type message. The expanded B-Type message may be expanded to include at least one mode of travel and lodging reservations linked by a machine-readable OP-BTI. In one or more embodiments, the expanded B-Type message may be expanded to include and link multi-mode travel reservations and/or lodging reservations of a passenger for a trip.

In one or more embodiments, the universal B-Type message is stored in a database to serve as a near real-time digital reservation and baggage tracking and handling coordinator for multi-mode travel and lodging. Upon scanning the original printed bag tag, at any time during the travel outside of the airport, up to date travel information and lodging information may be retrieved and displayed on a display device associated with a computing device, a scanning device, or a mobile computing device, for example.

In one or more embodiments, the inventor has determined that the once garbage printed bag tag with an OP-BTI at the end of a flight can be used as a primary key or unique identifier that is machine readable to access near-real time reservations for multiple modes of travel and/or lodging reservations to provide environmental savings, reduction in human resources, and increased security and logistics planning.

27 FIG. 14 FIG.C 2700 2708 2450 2700 2710 2708 2708 2711 illustrates a smart baggage travel systemfor multi-mode travel and lodging in accordance with an embodiment. The information stored in databasemay be stored in LIB. The smart baggage travel systemmay include a serverand a databasefor tracking, locating, and facilitating check-in of luggage items of a passenger independent of the passenger or passenger check-in processes. The databaseis an expanded B-Type message database or universal B-Type message database or LIB database. For example, the expanded B-Type message database may include an expanded BSMwith a retrieved original BSM from an air carrier and a created lodging data or a link to lodging data may be appended to the original BSM in an expanded or universal B-Type message. The expanded message includes an expanded or universal beginning header, and the end of the expanded message includes an end of message identifier code, as shown and described in. The terms “expanded B-Type message” and “universal B-Type message” may be used interchangeably herein. The terms “expanded BSM” and “universal BSM” may be used interchangeably herein. The terms “expanded B-Type message” and “universal B-Type message” and LIB are similar terms but different coding schemes. The LIB may not be configured in an IATA compatible formatting structure.

2710 148 2716 2710 148 2718 2710 148 2720 2710 148 2722 The serveror servermay access reservation information associated with other modes of transportation such as a manifest file, which may be associated with a ferry reservation system or any other mode of travel. The serveror servermay access a railway reservation system. The serveror servermay access a bus reservation system. The serveror servermay access a lodging entity reservation system.

2710 148 2702 2710 148 2704 2718 The serveror servermay retrieve airline reservation information associated with an originating flightfrom an airline manifest, a B-Type message, an airline reservation system, or a passenger. The serveror servermay retrieve an intermediate travel reservationfrom a railway reservation systemor the passenger, for example.

2710 148 2706 2722 2710 148 2704 2720 The serveror servermay retrieve lodging entity reservation informationfrom the lodging entity reservation systemor the passenger. The serveror servermay retrieve intermediate travel reservationsfrom the bus reservation systemor the passenger.

2702 2704 2706 2712 2714 2714 102 2708 2714 At least one or more of the airline reservations of an originating flight, the intermediate travel reservations, the lodging entity reservations, the airline return flightare stored in and/or linked to the universal travel passenger itinerary. The universal travel passenger itinerarymay include inbound travel information to the destination point and return path travel information back to home. The databasemay store the universal travel passenger itineraryseparately or as part of the expanded (universal) B-Type message or the LIB for baggage check-in, and/or baggage handling and delivery for one or more legs of travel.

9 FIG.C 27 FIG. 950 950 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor initiating an expanded B-Type message in accordance with an embodiment. The methodwill be described in combination with. Although the description is related to the expanded (universal) B-Type message generation, the same process applies to the creation of the LIB.

950 914 According to some examples, the methodmay include searching for reservations for at least one mode of travel associated with the passenger's itinerary while the passenger is travelling, at block. While the passenger is travelling such as on a plane, one or more B-Type messages may have been generated. For example, the airline host computing system may generate a BSM such as when the luggage item is checked in at the airport or with the air carrier. In one or more embodiments, the luggage item may be checked in at home, a train station, or a port such as a port associated with a cruise ship. In these instances, the IATA B-Type messages may have additional codes to designate the type of remote check-in. The BSM will include the additional codes and may be stored on or communicated to the airline host computer system or other associated computer system. In general, to ensure proper routing in the airline infrastructure, the airline host computer system or other associated computer system will communicate B-Type messages to one or more of baggage handling systems, sortation systems, reconciliation systems and industry tracing systems. This tracks the location of the luggage items in the airport infrastructure. However, shortly after a passenger arrives at a destination, the B-Type messages may be deleted.

100 Therefore, in one or more embodiments, the systemmay access a B-Type message to retrieve a bag tag number while a passenger is in flight.

950 916 100 2700 2700 2790 2710 According to some examples, the methodmay include accessing a B-Type message for a passenger associated with an originating airline travel carrier by at least one processor, the at least one processor being outside of an airline computing infrastructure, at block. The at least one processor may be part of systemor system, for example. The systemmay include a messaging systemin communication with the serverto communicate travel information in response to a trigger caused by scanning or acquiring the OP-BTI of the recycled and non-discarded originating printed IATA bag tag.

950 918 14 FIG.A According to some examples, the methodmay include extracting a digital IATA bag tag number from the B-Type message, at block. As will be seen in, the digital IATA bag tag number is represented by some of the digits in the field that starts with “.N/”.

950 920 According to some examples, the methodmay include retrieving the airline's B-Type message such as from the airline host computer system or other associated computer system, at block.

950 922 1400 14 FIG.A 14 FIG.C 14 FIG.A According to some examples, the methodmay include initiating the creation of an expanded B-Type message with the airline's B-Type message () including the IATA bag tag number, at block, associated with the originating printed bag tag. In, the collection of fields in bracket labeledA′ may represent a lite version of an airline's B-Type message format compatible with IATA B-Type messages ().

950 924 According to some examples, the methodmay include retrieving return flight information for the passenger, at block.

950 926 2450 431 14 FIG.B 14 FIG.B 14 FIG.C 4 FIG.C According to some examples, the methodmay include updating the expanded B-Type message with a simulated B-Type message, shown in, with return flight data, at block, or the LIB.illustrates a simulated B-Type message. The return flight data may be queued in the expanded B-Type message, the LIB, or in a designated separate simulated B-Type message until the passenger is ready to depart the lodging entity or other mode of travel. Because of overcrowding of the figures, the simulated B-Type message is not shown in. The simulated B-Type message may be generated by the simulated B-Type message generatorin.

950 928 9 FIG.D According to some examples, the methodmay include going to, at block, for additional modes of travel.

9 FIG.D 9000 illustrates a methodfor generating an expanded (universal) B-Type message for a return path of a passenger in accordance with an embodiment. Although the description is related to the expanded (universal) B-Type message generation, the same process applies to the creation of the LIB.

9000 2710 2708 9002 According to some examples, the methodmay include populating, by a server (i.e., server) or processor, records in the databaseto include expanded (universal) B-Type message for multi-mode of travel and lodging reservations. The expanded (universal) B-Type message includes sets of data fields for each mode of travel in at least one passenger's itinerary identifying one or more modes of travel and temporary lodging reservations linked by the unique identifier, at block.

100 2700 3100 100 100 2700 3100 In one or more embodiments, the passenger may enter their passenger's itinerary using a website portal which may be part of system,,, or otherwise accessible by system. The passenger may enter other information such as other modes of travel and lodging reservations. In other embodiments, the passenger may enter a PNR number or itinerary confirmation number using a website portal which may be part of system,orotherwise accessible by the systems.

In one or more embodiments, the website portal may be part of the lodging entity, such as without limitation, a resort or cruise ship.

9000 9004 9006 9004 9008 2720 27 FIG. According to some examples, the methodmay include determining, at block, whether the passenger is traveling by bus. If the determination is “NO,” a value of “NULL”will be returned to the server. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” then the server receives, at block, the bus mode reservation data from the bus reservation systemofin the bus set of data fields with the unique identifier being the primary key.

9000 9010 9012 9010 9014 2718 27 FIG. According to some examples, the methodmay include determining, at block, whether the passenger is traveling by train. If the determination is “NO,” a value of “NULL”will be returned to the server. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” then the server receives, at block, the train mode reservation data from the railway reservation systemofin the train set of data fields with the unique identifier being the primary key.

9000 9016 9018 9016 9020 2722 9008 9014 9020 9022 27 FIG. According to some examples, the methodmay include determining, at block, whether the passenger has lodging. If the determination is “NO,” a value of “NULL”will be returned to the server. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” then the server receives, at block, the lodging data in the lodging set of data fields from a lodging entity reservation systemofin the lodging set of data fields with the unique identifier being the primary key. Blocks,andmay flow to block.

9000 9022 9022 9028 9022 9000 9024 9026 According to some examples, the methodmay include, at block, a determination of whether there is an update to any of the modes of travel and lodging. If the determination, at block, is “NO,” the method waits for an update represented by looping on line. If the determination, at block, is “YES,” the methodmay trigger a communication update, at block, and cause a display of the update, at block. In one or more embodiments, the communication does not happen until the server is triggered by a communication representative of received image data from an acquiring device.

2701 2708 The servermay update a corresponding passenger itinerary linked to the universal B-Type message in the database.

9 9 FIGS.A-D The operations ofmay be performed for creating the luggage manifest using a LIB or an expanded B-Type message scheme. In one or more embodiments, the luggage item may travel independently from and parallel to the passenger. Furthermore, a passenger manifest may be different from the luggage manifest, but the passenger data record and the luggage data records may be otherwise electronically linked together so that as changes occur, the records are updated and synchronized.

28 FIG. 2800 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor checking in baggage (luggage item) of a passenger in accordance with an embodiment. The method can be used using the LIB or the expanded B-Type message scheme, as both schemes provide access to the return flight data in response to OP-BTI, for example or DPI data record. In lieu of the OP-BTI, the DPI data record may be used as a substitute.

2802 2800 In block, methodmay include electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquiring device, an originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from an originating airline travel carrier that is on a luggage item of a passenger to create a digital data record linked to the airline travel carrier.

2804 2800 2804 2806 In block, methodmay include utilizing, by at least one processor, the OP-BTI as a unique identifier to query a database to retrieve return flight data of the passenger. In some examples, blockmay include accessing, by the at least one processor, an airline's B-Type message using the digital BTI data record, at block. In another example, the database is a manifest having the digital BTI data record.

2808 2800 In block, methodmay include checking in, by the at least one processor, each luggage item for the passenger for the return flight with a return flight travel carrier identified in the retrieved return flight data. In one or more embodiments, the passenger is departing a lodging entity.

The lodging entity includes one of a hotel, resort, a cruise ship, short term rental homestay, long term rental homestay, residential dwelling, and building.

2810 2800 2740 142 27 FIG. 27 FIG. In one or more embodiments, in block, methodmay include causing, by the at least one processor, a printing device() to print a return flight bag tag′ () compatible with an International Air Transport Association for the return flight.

In one or more embodiments, the passenger may be traveling by multiple modes of travel and/or a temporary lodging entity during their return journey home or to a point of origination.

The inventor has identified that there is a substantial need for solving the disconnect with baggage handling throughout the passenger travel system. Using the originating flight airline bag tag (previously garbage) can be used to resolve the current passenger's experience issues and substantially reduce the enormous system costs for moving and identifying baggage through multi modes of travel and lodging. Using the original flight bag tag allows for the luggage to have an identifier that has important information and also allows access to a message system that will allow the bag to have a smart bag travel experience. This will allow the baggage to have a seamless travel experience much like the passenger while removing the baggage burden from the traveling passenger. Allowing the baggage to become smart with the identifier and messaging across all modes of travel and lodging will allow for a cost effective and seamless travel experience like never before due to the enhanced systems associated with recycling the original (originating) airline bag tag and provisioning the OP-BTI for off-airport location use.

14 FIG.C 14 FIG.D 1400 1400 illustrates an expanded (universal) B-Type messageC for multi-mode travel and lodging and recycling the originating bag tag in accordance with an embodiment.illustrates an expanded (universal) B-Type messageD for a return flight in accordance with an embodiment.

1400 1400 1400 1400 1402 1410 1412 1418 1420 1400 14 FIG.A 14 FIG.A For the sake of illustration and description, the expanded (universal) B-Type message, may be a universal BSM. The expanded B-Type messageC may include the BSMA described above in relation to. According to one or more embodiments, the BSMA′ is a lite airline BSM version of BSMA of. In general, the fields,,,andare preserved. In one or more embodiments, all fields may be preserved. In one or more embodiments, a different BSM construction may be generated. Furthermore, the expanded B-Type messageC may use other coding formats.

1400 1400 1400 1401 14 FIG.B 14 FIG.C In this example, the lite airline B-Type messageA′ may be immediately followed by a simulated B-Type messageB described in. The header of the expanded B-Type messageC may use, for example, the code “UBSMRC” as shown in, reference numeral. The “U” denotes that the message is universal and usable at off-airport locations. The “BSM” indicates the type of B-Type message format. The “RC” denotes that the format of the universal message is for recycling of the originating IATA printed bag tag.

1454 1456 1458 1450 1460 1400 1490 After the ending designation “ENDSBSM,” one or more fields or lines,,,, andmay be appended. The expanded B-Type messageC may have an end of message identifier “UENDBSMRC” in field. The code term “RC” represents recycling. The code term “RT” represents return.

1454 2714 27 FIG. For the sake of illustration and description, the preface “.L/” in fieldmay include a link to a lodging PNR # such as found in the universal travel passenger itinerary(). However, the lodging data could be entered including a lodging address and room number or cabin number, by way of a non-limiting example. Also, the preface may use a different coding schema.

1456 The preface “.L/” on linemay include a link to an intermediate travel PNR number or alternately, data representative of alternate travel data.

1458 1450 1460 The preface “.PL/” in fieldmay represent the code to a link for a passenger's luggage image. The preface “.PL/” in fieldmay represent the code to a link for a passenger's ID image. The preface “.LL/” in fieldmay represent the code to a link for a log of luggage location data. These example codes are for illustrative purposes only and not meant to be limiting in any sense.

Once the return flight bag tag of a checked-in baggage replaces the originating printed bag tag, the return flight bag tag may become a machine-readable instrument to continue the tracking, locating, and checking in of the luggage item with multiple modes of travel and lodging along multiple legs of travel for a journey home.

1400 Regarding the simulated B-Type messageB, it can be varied based on whether the baggage is checked in at a remote location, airport location, and airline. For example, there are recommended BSM formats for remotely checked in the luggage item from home, a train station, and a cruise ship at a port. By way of a non-limiting example, the field or code “.D/” may be used to enter the check in location information. When the luggage item is checked in at a train station, the train station, date, and time may be added to the field “.D” and separated by the symbol “/”. When the luggage item is checked in at a port, the port, port identification, date and time may be added to the field “.D/” and separated by the symbol “/”. This is shown in the simulated BSM because, in the examples, the baggage may be checked in from a cruise ship. Other location data may be used for other approved remote check-in locations.

The IATA messages may have .M and .Z symbols unused. However, this may change in time. So, other code combinations may be used to distinguish different fields in the expanded/universal B-Type messages.

The description herein references coding schema of IATA B-Type messages for descriptive purposes. However, other coding schema may be used in the expanded B-Type message outside of the airline or airport computing infrastructure.

14 FIG.D 1400 1402 1455 1400 1400 1455 1400 illustrates an expanded (universal) B-Type messageD for a return flight in accordance with an embodiment. The field′ is the header and may include the code “UBSMRT” such that “U” denotes universal, BSM denotes the type of B-Type message, and “RT” denotes return. The bracketed fieldsrepresent a lite airline BSM as described previously regarding bracket labeledA′. In this instance, the field “.N/” may be updated with the IATA bag tag number for the printed bag tag for the return flight and is different from the “.N/” number in the lite airline BSMA′. In this instance, the lite airline BSMmay be followed by the universal B-Type messageC.

1400 1458 1450 1460 1470 1400 1490 In one or more embodiments, the UBSMRCC may be followed by fields′,′,′ as previously described (collectively′). However, the data in these fields can be for the return path of the journey. The expanded (universal) B-Type messageD may include an end of message designator′, which may be “UENDBSMRT.”

14 FIG.E 14 FIG.B 1400 1420 1420 1400 1400 1430 1400 1458 1450 1460 1470 1400 1490 illustrates an expanded (universal) B-Type message for multi-mode travel and lodging of an originating flight in accordance with one embodiment. The B-Type messageE (i.e., UBSMO) may include a header “UBSMO” in fieldE. FieldE may be followed by simulated BSM or other B-Type messageB, described in. In simulated B-type messageB′ the fieldE may have a temporary unique identifier as a placeholder until an IATA bag tag number (i.e., IATA license plate number) is created. The simulated BSMB′ may be followed by the fieldsE,E andE (collectivelyE), which may include links to the passenger luggage image data on the originating leg of the journey, the passenger ID image on the originating leg of the journey, and the location data on the originating leg, respectively. The expanded B-Type messageE may include an end of message identifier such as “UENDBSMO”E.

1400 3100 When the luggage item is ready to be checked in, the simulated messageB′ is merged with an airline's BSM, for example, to obtain the IATA bag tag identifier and other remaining information. Embodiments of the IATA bag tag identifier used by systemare as described below.

29 FIG. 1400 2702 2704 2706 2712 2714 1400 2725 2708 2730 2708 2735 2708 illustrates a block diagram of links to expanded data of multi-mode travel and lodging data in accordance with one embodiment. The expanded B-Type messageC may access or have links to airline reservations of an originating flight, the intermediate travel reservations, the lodging entity reservations, the airline return flightthat are stored in a universal travel passenger itinerary. The expanded B-Type messageC may access or have links to the luggage location data login database, the luggage imagein databaseand the passenger ID imagedatabase.

30 FIG. 1400 2702 2704 2706 2712 2714 1400 2725 2730 2735 illustrates a block diagram of links to expanded data of multi-mode travel and lodging data of an originating flight in accordance with one embodiment. The B-Type messageE (i.e., UBSMO) may access or have links to airline reservations of an originating flight, the intermediate travel reservations, the lodging entity reservations, the airline return flightare stored in a universal travel passenger itinerary. The B-Type messageE may access or have links to the luggage location data log, the luggage imagesand the passenger ID image.

29 30 FIGS.- 2540 Whilediscuss links to in the expanded B-Type message scheme described herein, the same or similar links apply to the LIBdescribed herein.

Remote check in at the home began approximately back in 2001 and has taken on multiple forms over the years but has struggled to operate due to enormous costs for technology at the remote site, or logistic issues with trying to pre-print any documents such as a valet tag or a bag tag, for example. The valet tag is discarded and replaced with a permanent IATA bag tag, which causes environmental waste. While a single valet tag does not seem to cause a significant issue, compounding the discarded paper, ink, and equipment for printing millions of valet tags over years can cause environmental waste that contributes to long term climate change.

The challenge with a remote check-in in some environments also includes a strict time constraint, such as a 24-hour check-in window, which creates a very difficult task of managing the process and having any opportunity for financial viability. The embodiments herein can address these concerns and offer an on-demand lite technology that is environmentally friendly and expands the airline check-in window externally by using a simulated BSM and/or assignable IATA bag tag codes combined with ID check and verification, location verification, itinerary verification, ticket purchase verification, capturing an image of the luggage and/or attaching a temporary wireless luggage tracker to allow for the baggage check-in to occur seamlessly with the airline's B type message triggering the printing of the bag tag.

31 33 34 35 FIGS.,,and The one or more blocks of the methods ofmay be performed by programming instructions stored on tangible, non-transitory computer readable medium, which when executed by one or more processors or servers may cause the one or more processor or servers to perform the operations of the blocks described herein below.

31 FIG. 3100 3100 100 2700 100 2700 3100 3114 3116 illustrates a systemfor digitizing luggage custody and luggage check-in in accordance with one embodiment. The systemmay be part of systemand/or, in one or more embodiments. In one or more embodiments, the disclosure provides a unified system for combining the operations of system,andto enhance the travel experience of the luggage itemand passengerwhile eliminating environmental waste.

3100 3110 3126 3100 3100 3134 3100 3148 The systemmay include at least one first processorand at least one second processorin wired or wireless communications with each other. The systemdoes not include those items in the box denoted by dash dot lines. The systemmay include at least one baggage storage locationto temporarily store luggage items. The systemmay include other computing devicesto acquire bag tag identifiers or other information affixed to the luggage item as will be described later.

3100 3170 3175 In one or more embodiments, the systemmay include a baggage check-in moduleand a simulated BSM generator. A simulated BSM generator has been previously described, so no further discussion is necessary.

3100 3160 3160 3100 In one or more embodiments, the systemmay include a module for assignable bag tag codes. The module for assignable bag tag codesmay bypass the IATA bag tag code generated by the DCS of the airline carrier and assign an IATA bag tag code by system. The assigned IATA bag tag code is populated into the simulated BSM and further merged with the missing airline BSM data to form a unified BSM. A unified BSM is a merger of a simulated BSM with information from an airline's BSM. The unified BSM is used to create an expanded BSM. The same process to create a unified BSM may be used to create a unified B-Type message.

3100 1 3100 138 102 104 142 3100 1 FIG.B It should be noted that systemcan be used at a lodging entity checking in a luggage item or a passenger and their luggage item for a leg of travel. Furthermore, as shown in, path Lin one or more embodiments, may be provided by systemwherein the luggagemay be retrieved at homeand checked-in prior to delivery to the first-mode travel carriersuch that bag tagis created by systemusing the methods described herein.

3110 3130 3118 3110 3116 3130 3118 3134 3112 3118 3128 32 FIG. In one or more embodiments, the first processormay receive a PNR numberor other identifier from a confirmed itineraryfor a flight with at least one airline carrier. The first processormay receive information that confirms an identify of the passengerassociated with the PNR numberfrom the confirmed itineraryto pick up and transport luggage associated with the PNR number to a baggage storage locationfrom a passenger location. The confirmed itinerary() may be created by a computer systemassociated with an air carrier.

3180 3180 3180 3110 For example, the verification processmay have policies and procedures for verifying the identification of the passenger depending on the state from which the identification is issued and the type of identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Communication procedures for contacting the databases of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be stored for subsequent looked up in the module of the verification process. The verification processmay complete the verification process and communicate a signal representative of a verification received from a DMV, for example, to the first processorwhich is then displayed on the display device.

3110 3110 3120 3120 3110 3120 In one or more embodiments, the first processormay receive a data entry representative of a verification of the passenger by a user of the first processor. For example, the user may receive the identification instrumentand visually match the passenger's name in the confirmation itinerary with the name on the identification instrument. In one or more embodiments, the first processormay be configured to extract an individual's name in the identification instrumentusing optical character recognition (OCR) or other software applications such as to convert text from a PDF or JPEG file to a DOCX (MICROSOFT WORD) file, for example.

3110 3118 3118 3118 3100 3110 3110 3118 3110 In one or more embodiments, the imaging device of the first processormay capture an image of the confirmed itinerary, an image of a bar code, or a QR code. Information associated with the confirmed itinerarycan be received, such as, without limitation, the names of other passengers associated with the confirmed itinerary, the airline of the originating airline carrier, the destination airline carrier, date and time of departure, and time of arrival at the destination, the PNR number or itinerary confirmation number may be provided to systemvia the first processor. The first processormay perform optical character recognition (OCR) on an image of the paper copy of the confirmed itineraryas a methodology to receive the itinerary information and the PNR number or other artificial intelligence (AI) software may be used to convert hardcopy text to digital data. The first processormay receive itinerary information and the PNR by accessing the same information from a web portal linked to a passenger's account, for example.

3118 3120 In one or more embodiments, the passenger record may include at least one of the PNR number of a confirmed itinerary, an image of each luggage item being picked up, and a copy of the identification instrument.

3110 3126 3130 3102 3104 1 3106 3108 3146 3132 3110 3132 The first processormay communicate with the second processorthe PNR number, the verification, the ID image, the luggage item (L) images, geo location informationand itinerary information, collectively in bracket. By way of a non-limiting example, the smart phone or other mobile computing device may include a Global Positioning receiver to receive signals from a Global Positioning System (GPS) to identify the location of the first processor. The digitized information inis used to eliminate the need for a printed valet tag for tagging the luggage item.

3126 3130 3128 14 FIG.B In one or more embodiments, the second processormay generate a simulated baggage source message (BSM), as shown, with the received PNR number. The second processor is independent from the air carrier and computer system. The BSM is compatible with an International Air Transport Association (IATA) B-Type messages.

3126 3130 The second processormay cause the creation of an IATA license plate for each luggage item associated with the PNR numberand related itinerary information.

3126 3128 In one or more embodiments, the second processormay update the simulated BSM with the created IATA license plate and communicate, to the computer systemassociated with the air carrier, the updated BSM.

3140 3142 3138 3140 3142 3134 The trackers,may be affixed to luggage. The tracker may be an AIRTAG tracker by APPLE Inc. The tracker,may be a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a GSM tracker or other tracker. This step may be performed at any time including when the luggage item is brought into the baggage storage location.

3620 3610 36 FIG. The AIRTAG tracker has a mobile application called FIND MYas shown inthat is displayed on a display of a mobile communication device. Other types of trackers may be programmed to transmit data to a computing device in response to a ping signal.

Luggage items may be tagged with a bag tag that conforms to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) bag tag code and/or other standardized formatting of the carrier. For example, an airline bag tag may include an IATA code that includes a three-character alpha numerical geocode designating airports and metropolitan areas. The IATA code is also known as an IATA location identifier. The IATA also publishes industry standard rules for creation of bag tags for the airline industry. The printed bag tag may include a 10-digit license plate and corresponding bar code. The printed bag tag may include information to create the IATA geocode, the original airline flight information, the 10-digit license plate, and other bag tag information printed on an originating hardcopy printed bag tag.

32 FIG. 3118 3118 3130 illustrates an example confirmed itineraryfor an air flight in accordance with one embodiment. The confirmed itineraryincludes at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, a passenger's name, flight reservation information, and a purchased ticket number.

3100 3165 35 FIG. In one or more embodiments, the systemmay include a tracker assignment module, which includes an application that allows the wireless tracker to be named or provided with information that is associated with a unique code such as a PNR number or other identifier. This process is described later in.

3100 3110 3110 1 3114 1 3106 3130 3112 1 1 FIGS.A-D In one or more embodiments, the systemincludes an imaging device in communication with the first processor. The imaging device and first processormay be integrated into a single device, such as a smart phone, mobile communication device, Tablet, Notebook, or other camera-enabled portable computing device. The imaging device, as shown in, may capture an image of each luggage item (L)(hereinafter referred to as “Limages”) associated with the PNR number, prior to departing the passenger location.

3120 3104 3110 3118 3114 In one or more embodiments, the imaging device may capture an image of an identification instrument(hereinafter referred to as “ID image”) issued to the passenger or other designated person. The user of the first processorand imaging device may verify the identification of the passenger to reconcile with the PNR number in the confirmed itinerary. The PNR number may be associated with at least one person. However, at the time of pickup of at least one luggage item, only one individual in the PNR number may need to be verified. In one or more embodiments, all the passengers need to be present, and all identifications of adult passengers need to be verified.

33 FIG. 3300 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor generating a simulated baggage source message in accordance with an embodiment.

3300 3302 3302 34 FIG. According to some examples, the methodmay include receiving a passenger name record (PNR) number and itinerary information of a confirmed itinerary for a flight. The confirmed itinerary may be created by a computer system associated with an air carrier or a third-party travel coordinator (e.g., travel agency or other independent entity from the air carrier), at block. The process of blockis described in more detail in relation tobelow.

3300 3303 According to some examples, the methodmay include capturing images of a luggage items, geolocation information, time stamp, and passenger identification, at block.

3300 3304 According to some examples, the methodmay include receiving information that confirms an identify of the passenger associated with the PNR number from the confirmed itinerary to pick up and transport luggage associated with the PNR number from a passenger location to a baggage storage location, at block.

3300 3306 According to some examples, the methodmay include generating, at a time that may be before a start time of a check-in window, a simulated baggage source message with the received PNR number and itinerary information. The simulated baggage source message may be compatible with an International Air Transport Association (IATA) B-Type Messages, at block. The itinerary information may include flight times, flight date, inbound airport, and outbound airport, for example.

3300 3308 According to some examples, the methodmay include causing creation of an IATA license plate for each luggage item associated with the PNR number during the check-in window, at block.

3300 3310 According to some examples, the methodmay include updating the SBSM with the created IATA license plate, at block.

3300 3312 3308 3310 3312 According to some examples, the methodmay include merging the SBSM and the BSM created by the airline carrier to create a unified BSM during the check-in window, at block. One or more of the blocks,andmay be part of a baggage check-in process where the luggage is picked up from the passenger at home.

3300 3316 According to some examples, the methodmay include printing an IATA compatible bag tag using the digital unified or expanded BSM, at block.

While the description here in describes an example for picking up luggage from a home and verifying passengers at a home location, this process may be performed at any remote location that is outside of an airport infrastructure.

34 FIG. 31 FIG. 3400 3118 3400 3118 3402 3400 3404 3400 3118 3406 3400 3118 3408 illustrates a methodto record passenger's itinerary() in accordance with an embodiment. In one or more embodiments, the methodmay include identifying an originating airline carrier from the passenger's itinerary, at block. In one or more embodiments, the methodmay include identifying destination airline carrier from itinerary, at block. In one or more embodiments, the methodmay include identifying the PNR number from the itinerary, at block. In one or more embodiments, the methodmay include identifying departure date from itinerary, at block. The itinerary's information may be recorded or captured using optical character recognition algorithms.

35 FIG. 36 FIG. 3500 illustrates a flowchart of a methodfor tracking a luggage item prior to affixing a bag tag on the luggage item in accordance with an embodiment.illustrates a mobile communication device displaying a FIND MY application by APPLE, Inc. in accordance with an embodiment. While the FIND MY application is an example tracker, other trackers may be used and the description should not be limited in any way to only the AIRTAG by APPLE, Inc.

3500 3140 3142 3502 According to one or more embodiments, the methodmay include assigning a temporary wireless baggage trackerorto a passenger's luggage item, at block.

34 FIG. 3140 By way of a non-limiting example, the collected PNR number and date and time of travel, described in, may be saved in a manifest or other file used to alert employes of a check-in window for the luggage item. The assigning of the temporary wireless baggage tracker to a passenger's luggage item may include naming the temporary wireless trackerwith the PNR number of the passenger, for example.

3500 3140 3142 3114 3504 According to some examples, the methodmay include affixing the temporary wireless baggage tracker (i.e., trackeror) to the luggage item, at block.

3500 3506 According to some examples, the methodmay include transporting the luggage item to a baggage storage location, at block.

3500 3150 3508 According to some examples, the methodmay include pinging via signalthe baggage tracker in the storage location to alert the employees of the location of the luggage item for the passenger, at block. For example, the AIRTAG can be controlled to play a sound.

3500 3510 According to some examples, the methodmay include matching passenger information with the PNR number and/or the printed bag tag in a communication device linked to the tracker, at block, once the luggage item is located.

3500 3512 According to some examples, the methodmay include affixing the printed bag tag and/or the marker to the luggage item, at block, matching the passenger information. The bag tag information may be communicated to the passenger.

3500 3514 According to some examples, the methodmay include removingthe temporary wireless baggage tracker. The temporary wireless baggage tracker may be reused for other luggage items.

This process may eliminate the need for a printed valet tag. Instead, the temporary wireless tracker may be used to replace the valet tag.

In one or more embodiments, the digital images of the luggage items in combination with the digital geolocation data and passenger's name data on the passenger identification linked to the PNR number may be used to replace the use of a printed valet tag.

In one or more embodiments, processes herein allow the process for checking in a luggage item to begin prior to a regulated check-in window.

In view of the foregoing, the embodiments herein provide, a method that includes receiving, by a first processor, a passenger name record (PNR) number from a confirmed itinerary for a flight, the confirmed itinerary created by a computer system associated with an air carrier, receiving, by the first processor, information that confirms an identify of the passenger associated with the PNR number from the confirmed itinerary to pick up and transport luggage associated with the PNR number to a location from a passenger location, and generating, by a second processor in communication with the first processor, a simulated baggage source message (BSM) with the received PNR number, the second processor being independent from the air carrier and the BSM being compatible with an International Air Transport Association (IATA) B-Type message.

For the sake of discussion and illustration, a BSM message is described. However, any B-Type message may be used that includes relevant passenger information that is accessible using the IATA bag tag number.

3100 3100 1430 e In view of the foregoing, the embodiments provide a systemand method for checking in the luggage item that may include a first processor for receiving a passenger name record (PNR) number of a confirmed itinerary for a flight. The confirmed itinerary is created by a computer system associated with an air carrier, for example. The first processor may receive information that confirms an identify of the passenger associated with the PNR number from the confirmed itinerary to pick up and transport luggage associated with the PNR number to a processing location (i.e., baggage storage location) from a passenger location. The systemand method may employ a second processor in communication with the first processor to generate a simulated baggage source message (SBSM) using a temporary unique identifier. The second processor is independent from the computer system of the air carrier. The simulated BSM is compatible with an International Air Transport Association (IATA) B-Type messages.

3100 The systemand method may employ the second processor to cause the creation of an originating IATA license plate for each luggage item associated with the PNR number.

3100 The systemand method may employ the second processor to update the simulated BSM with the created IATA license plate. The second processor may communicate to a computer system associated with the air carrier the updated BSM.

3100 The systemand method may employ the first processor to receive the information that confirms the identity of the passenger. This may include the use of an imaging device in communication with the first processor to capture an image of an identification instrument issued to the passenger.

3100 The systemand method may employ the imaging device in communication with the first processor to capture an image of each luggage item associated with the PNR number, prior to departing from the passenger location.

The simulated BSM may include information associated with inbound and outbound airports and dates.

3100 The systemand method may include a server or processor to check in a luggage item of the passenger and merge an airline's BSM with the simulated BSM.

3100 The systemand method may include a printing device to print an originating IATA bag tag. The system and method may employ a communication device to communicate a 10-digit IATA bag tag number to a mobile communication device of the passenger.

3100 The systemand method may provision the 10-digit IATA bag tag number to be a universal bag tag number. The IATA bag tag is recycled for off-airport locations.

3100 The systemand method may include a temporary and re-assignable luggage tracker that can be temporarily associated with the luggage item so that when a check-in window opens for printing the IATA for a flight, the luggage tracker may be pinged to locate the luggage. After printing the originating IATA bag tag and locating the luggage, the luggage tracker can be removed and subsequently reassigned for use by another luggage item.

While the description herein describes the creation of an expanded BSM, this description also applies to the creation of any of the other B-Type messages such as baggage transfer message (BTM), baggage source message (BSM), baggage processed message (BPM), baggage unload message (BUM), baggage not seen message (BNS), baggage control message (BCM), baggage manifest message (BMM) and baggage request (BRQ) used outside of the airline or airport computing infrastructure and their baggage handling system. The bag tag number may be part of the baggage messages.

For example, when a delivery service is expecting to pick up baggage at a destination location and the baggage location is not there, a computing device may be able to access an expanded B-Type message and create a BUM, for example, such as when a luggage item is missing from a train station or a bus station.

2710 In one or more embodiments, the method may include electronically receiving at least one passenger's itinerary for at least one of lodging reservation data associated with a lodging entity, and at least one mode of travel that includes an air travel mode with an originating airline travel carrier. The method may include generating, by a server, a universal baggage source message (BSM) for multi-mode of travel, the universal BSM including sets of data fields for an airline mode of travel and lodging reservations linked by a digital unique identifier representative of an originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag that is on a passenger's luggage item from the originating airline travel carrier. The method may include recycling the printed bag tag and OP-BTI using the universal BSM to check-in a luggage item of a passenger for a return flight associated with the at least one passenger's itinerary.

2708 The method may include provisioning the recycled printed bag tag as a luggage locator at off-airport locations in response to the recycled printed bag tag being acquired by an acquiring device until a new printed bag tag is created for the return flight. This is accomplished for example by the creation of the databaseto allow the OP-BTI to live on after the originating flight. The machine-readability of the OP-BTI allows the OP-BTI to be scanned or read over and over to track, locate, or to only retrieve updated information by those needing to retrieve updated travel information, such as lodging information or other modes of transportation.

2708 1400 2790 2710 2708 14 14 29 30 FIGS.C-E and- 14 FIG.A According to one or more embodiments, the generating of the databaseto include the universal BSM, as shown in, may include acquiring a digital data record representative of the OP-BTI by accessing an airline's BSMA, shown in, of the originating airline travel carrier while the passenger is in flight. This may allow expanding the airline's BSM having the OP-BTI very quickly which can be helpful when thousands of passengers are soon arriving for a voyage on a cruise ship or resort. The sooner the expansion process can occur for some passengers, overloading employees with processing down-stream passengers can be minimized. The expanded airline BSM includes sets of data fields for linking a messaging systemand updated lodging reservation data. The serverstores the expanded BSM as a universal multi-travel and lodging BSM in the database.

While the description herein discloses an expanded BSM, the disclosure also relates to expanded B-Type messages that include information that is unique to the passenger and their luggage item.

1400 1412 1418 14 FIG.A In view of the foregoing, the airline's BSMA () may include a plurality of sets of data fields. The fields include a bag tag data field (i.e., field) with a sequence of numbers that represent at least the OP-BTI. The sequence of numbers may include the number of luggage items checked in. The fields may include a passenger's name data field that includes a passenger's name and a passenger name record (PNR) number data field (i.e., field).

1400 1412 1418 14 FIG.C In one or more embodiments, the expanding of the airline's BSM may include creating a lite airline BSMA′ () by recycling the OP-BTI data field (i.e., field), the passenger's name data field, and the PNR number data field (i.e., field) of the plurality of sets of data fields. The fields of the lite airline BSM are added to the expanded BSM. In one or more embodiments, all fields of the original airline's BSM may be preserved and added to the expanded BSM.

1400 2710 1454 1454 1454 In one or more embodiments, when expanding of the airline's BSM, the method may include appending to the lite airline BSMA′, by the server, a link to the lodging reservation data in a fieldof the lodging entity associated with the passenger. However, in one or more embodiments, in lieu of a link to data, the data fieldmay include data representative of an assigned room, or a cabin number. The data fieldmay include at least one data field. For example, the lodging data field may include geolocation data or an address of the lodging entity.

2710 1456 1420 1420 In one or more embodiments, when expanding of the airline's BSM, the method may include appending to the lite airline BSM, by the server, a link to a travel mode reservation data of a second mode of travel different from the air travel mode that is in a field. However, in one or more embodiments, in lieu of a link to data, the data fieldmay include data representative of a train station or gate, date, time of departure. The data fieldmay include at least one data field. For example, the mode of travel data field may include geolocation data or an address of the station.

2730 1458 1460 2735 1450 2725 2708 27 FIG. In one or more embodiments, when expanding of the airline's BSM, the method may include at least one of: a) linking data to at least one stored image of the luggage item, such as in luggage image database, to the lite airline BSM in field; b) linking data to location data of the luggage item in response to the OP-BTI being acquired by an acquiring device in field; and c) linking data to an image of a passenger's identification, such as in database for the passenger ID image() to the lite airline BSM in field. The luggage location data logmay be stored in database.

2790 2708 The messaging systemmay be used to generate a message to the acquiring device in response to the acquiring device acquiring the OP-BTI. The acquiring device would send the image of the OP-BTI so that the digital BTI data record is created to query the databasefor information. The messaging system may provide any updated information to the acquiring device for directing the luggage item to the next location in the travel experience.

14 FIG.B 14 FIG.C 1400 2740 142 As shown inand, the method may further include creating a simulated BSMB and checking in the luggage item using the simulated BSM to create the OP-BTI. The method may include printing, by printing device, the printed bag tag′ with the new OP-BTI for the return flight.

2710 1400 2710 1400 2710 The method may include accessing, by the server, an airline's BSMA using the PNR prior to the passenger arriving at a destination. The method may include acquiring, by the server, the OP-BTI associated with the PNR in the airline's BSMA and retrieving, by the server, the return flight data linked to the PNR and/or OP-BTI.

2710 1400 2710 2710 1400 1400 1400 The method may include creating, by the server, a lite airline BSMA′ and generating, by the server, a simulated BSM with the return flight data. The method may include generating, by the server, a universal BSM (i.e., universal B-Type messageC) with the lite airline BSMA′ and the simulated BSMB appended together.

2725 1400 The method may include electronically acquiring, by an acquiring device, the OP-BTI on the recycled printed bag tag; logging an instance and a location associated with the OP-BTI affixed to the luggage item that is read by the acquiring device, in the luggage location data log; and appending a link to information representative of the logged instance and location to the universal BSMA.

1400 2790 The method may include linking the lodging reservation data to the universal BSMA, receiving updated assigned lodging reservation data; and communicating, by the messaging system, the updated assigned lodging reservation data to at least one of: a mobile communication device, computing device, or a scanning device, in response to an acquiring device reading the recycled printed bag tag at an off-airport location.

2710 2714 3 FIG.E The method may include electronically acquiring, by an acquiring device, the originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) on the recycled printed bag tag affixed to the luggage item; querying, by the server, the database (i.e., universal travel passenger itinerary) for an assigned room associated with the digital data record of the OP-BTI in the universal BSM, in response to receiving the acquired OP-BTI; and causing display on a display device of the acquiring device information associated with the assigned room, in response to the query, as shown in.

2708 108 The method may include utilizing, by the at least one processor, the OP-BTI as a machine-readable unique identifier to query the databaseor systemto retrieve return flight data of a departing passenger from the lodging entity; and checking in, by the at least one processor, each luggage item for the departing passenger for the return flight with a return flight travel carrier identified in the retrieved return flight data.

2740 2750 The method may include causing, by the at least one processor, creation of a new OP-BTI with the return flight data, passenger's name and passenger name record; and printing, by a printing device, a new bag tagwith the new OP-BTI for the return flight.

2710 1400 The method may include generating, by the server, an outbound simulated BSMB with the return flight data, passenger's name and passenger name record; assigning a new OP-BTI to the luggage item for the return flight; and populating a new digital BTI record representative of the assigned OP-BTI in the simulated BSM.

2700 3100 2710 3126 3126 The systemormay include a remote simulated Departure Control System (DCS) in communication with serverorthat assigns IATA compatible bag tags for a non-flying airline carrier with its own IATA assigned airline code that can be processed through traditional airline baggage handling systems. The assigned OP-BTI is assigned by a remote serverin communication with the simulating DCS. The universal B-Type message may be created for all IATA B-Type messages.

The “step-by-step process” for performing the claimed functions herein is a specific algorithm, and may be shown as a mathematical formula, in the text of the specification as prose, and/or in a flowchart. The instructions of the software program create a special purpose machine for carrying out the particular algorithm. Thus, in any means-plus-function claim herein in which the disclosed structure is a computer, or microprocessor, programmed to carry out an algorithm, the disclosed structure is not the general-purpose computer, but rather the special purpose computer programmed to perform the disclosed algorithm.

A general-purpose computer, or microprocessor, may be programmed to carry out the algorithm/steps for creating a new machine. The general-purpose computer becomes a special purpose computer once it is programmed to perform particular functions pursuant to instructions from program software of the embodiments described herein. The instructions of the software program that carry out the algorithm/steps electrically change the general-purpose computer by creating electrical paths within the device. These electrical paths create a special purpose machine for carrying out the particular algorithm/steps.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which embodiments belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

In particular, unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as “processing” or “computing” or “calculating” or “determining” or “displaying” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such data storage, transmission or display devices.

“Communication media” typically comprise computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as carrier wave or other transport mechanism. The communication media may also comprise any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media comprises wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, infrared, and other wireless media. Combinations of any of the above are also included within the scope of computer readable medium.

Alternatively, or in addition, any of the functions and programming modules described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, without limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components that may be used include Field-programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application-specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Application-specific Standard Products, System-on-a-chip systems, Complex Programmable Logic Devices, and the like.

Terms such as “unit”, “module”, “member”, “block” and “component” as used herein generally represent software, firmware, hardware, or combinations thereof. In the case of a software implementation, the module or component represents program code that performs specified tasks when executed on a processor. The program code may be stored in one or more computer readable memory devices, otherwise known as non-transitory devices. The features of the embodiments described herein are platform-independent, meaning that the techniques can be implemented on a variety of commercial computing platforms having a variety of processors (e.g., set-top box, desktop, laptop, notebook, tablet computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile telephone, smart telephone, gaming console, wearable device, an Internet-of-Things (IoT) device, and the like). According to embodiments, a plurality of “unit”, “module”, “member”, “block” and “component” may be implemented as a single component or a single “unit”, “module”, “member”, “block” and “component” may include a plurality of components.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected” with or to another element, it can be directly or indirectly connected to the other element, wherein the indirect connection includes “connection via a wireless communication network”.

Throughout the description, when a member is “on” another member, this includes not only when the member is in contact with the other member, but also when there is another member between the two members.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including,” “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and/or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Moreover, unless specifically stated, any use of the terms “first”, “second”, etc., do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms “first”, “second”, etc., are used to distinguish one element from another. Likewise, identification codes or reference numbers are used for the convenience of the description but are not intended to illustrate the order of each step or block. Each step or block may be implemented in an order different from the illustrated order unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

While various disclosed embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Numerous changes, omissions and/or additions to the subject matter disclosed herein can be made in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the embodiments. Also, equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. In addition, while a particular feature may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the embodiments without departing from the scope thereof.

Further, the purpose of the foregoing Abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the relevant art(s) who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of this technical disclosure. The Abstract is not intended to be limiting as to the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

Therefore, the breadth and scope of the subject matter provided herein should not be limited by any of the above explicitly described embodiments. Rather, the scope of the embodiments should be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied on various platforms. The following provides an antecedent basis for the information technology that may be utilized to enable the disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. Embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented as instructions stored on a machine-readable medium, which may be read and executed by one or more processors. A machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form that is readable by a machine (e.g., a computing device). For example, a machine-readable medium may include read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); magnetic disk storage media; optical storage media; flash memory devices; electrical, optical, acoustical or other forms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.), and others.

Further, firmware, software, routines, instructions may be described herein as performing certain actions. However, it should be appreciated that such descriptions are merely for convenience and that such actions in fact result from computing devices, processors, controllers, or other devices executing the firmware, software, routines, instructions, etc.

The machine-readable medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any non-transitory, tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Storage and services may be on premise or remote such as in the “cloud” through vendors operating under the brands, MICROSOFT AZURE, AMAZON WEB SERVICES, RACKSPACE, and KAMATERA.

A machine-readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with machine-readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A machine-readable signal medium may be any machine-readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

Program code embodied on a machine-readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wire-line, optical fiber cable, radio frequency, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Machine-readable program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object-oriented programming language such as Java, C#, C++, Visual Basic or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. Additional languages may include scripting languages such as PYTHON, LUA and PERL.

Aspects of the present disclosure are described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according one or more embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by machine-readable program instructions.

Airport Computing Infrastructure refers a distributed network of computing systems with controlled access to baggage handling systems that track and handle luggage items, systems that track passengers and systems that control flight reservations and more. The airport computing infrastructure is shared by airlines to deliver airplanes to gates for disembarking passengers and luggage items to carousels, for example. In some instances, an airline computing infrastructure and airport infrastructure may be used interchangeably.

Airline Computing Infrastructure refers a distributed network of computing systems with controlled access for booking reservations and checking in passengers and their luggage items. The airline computing infrastructure interfaces with the baggage handling systems that track luggage items and systems that track passengers. The airline computing infrastructure includes the Departure Control System (DCS) and a travel reservation booking system.

BTI means “bag tag identifier.” A bag tag identifier, also known as a baggage tag or baggage label, is a small tag or label attached to a passenger's luggage that contains identifying information about the passenger and their flight. It is used by airlines to track and handle the passenger's checked baggage. The tag usually includes the passenger's name, flight information (flight number, departure and destination airports, and date of travel), and a unique identifier, such as a bag tag number or barcode. The bag tag identifier number is unique for each luggage, and it's used as reference for the airlines to track the luggage through the baggage handling system, matching the luggage to the passenger's flight and route, and also to identify the owner of the luggage in case of misplaced, lost or delayed luggage. The bag tag identifier is usually issued at check-in, and the passenger may attach it to their luggage before they drop it off at the baggage drop-off counter.

Database means an organized collection of data stored, updated and accessed electronically. Databases are typically designed to hold data, support efficient query and data manipulation, and manage the way that data is stored and retrieved.

First-mode travel carrier (FMTC) means the initial carrier that affixes a tangible, machine-scannable indicium to a passenger's luggage which according to the present disclosure is used to retrieve the passenger PNR and then construct a passenger manifest for one or more return trips without having to manually reenter data.

International Air Transport Association (IATA) refers to the world-wide trade association of airlines (for both freight and passenger carriers) that regulates the aviation industry by promulgating standards, procedures, and practices.

License Plate means the ten-digit numeric code on a bag tag issued by a carrier to agent during check-in for a travel journey. The term “license plate” in this context is the official term used by IATA. The license plate is encoded in a machine-scannable bar code but also presented in human-readable form where it will have either a two-character or a three-digit IATA carrier code. For example, it may be either “CZ728359” or “784728359.” “CZ” would be the two-character IATA code for China Southern Airlines, and “784” would be the three-digit IATA carrier code. For American Airlines®, the IATA Designator would be “AA” and the IATA code “001.”

Lodging Entity means a business or operation providing residential hospitality services such as a hotel, resort or cruise ship as non-limiting examples. A lodging entity may be a mode of travel or a vehicle of travel.

Multi-Mode Travel means functionally using a B-Type message and using an IATA message, and expanding their use all the way to the lodging entity or other mode of travel. The IATA license plate, the PNR number, and the piece of paper becomes a bag tag for the entire trip and for any mode of travel.

Originating Hardcopy Bag Tag Identifier (OP-BTI) means a unique identifier associated with or printed on a luggage bag tag from the originating airline travel carrier. In general, every piece of luggage in airline travel is tagged with a unique identifier for tracking purposes. It is typically attached to the luggage at check-in and scanned at various points throughout the journey to ensure the luggage makes it to the correct destination.

Passenger/Airline Information on the originating hardcopy bag tag refers to information that links a passenger and an airline to specific IATA compatible passenger information. This information may include the PNR number for a passenger's itinerary, the IATA license plate printed on an originating hardcopy bag tag that is associated with a flight in the passenger's itinerary and/or the originating airline of the passenger's flight or associated with the itinerary. This information may include a passenger's name and the airline code or airline name. This information may include any information that when combined can be used to access the passenger's PNR data stored in a computer readable memory device coupled to a computing device associated with the airline carrier. The term “passenger/airline information” is sometimes referred to as “printed passenger information associated with an airline travel carrier” that is on an originating hardcopy bag tag.

Luggage Item Brain (LIB) refers to stored data and programming instructions in a central or distributed location, which create delivery, pickup, and handling instructions of the luggage item parallel to its owner's travel journey or itinerary. The LIB may include information for the checking in of the luggage item for its return home or for a return leg of travel. The LIB may include reservation information for travel on multiple modes of travel. The LIB may include up-to-date information about the luggage item's clearance status through a government Customs station or ISSS. The LIB may include up-to-date information about available reservation status. The LIB may include a primary key or linking key that is compatible with an IATA unique identifier and/or a PNR number tracking the luggage item using a printed bag tag or bingo marker originating by an airline carrier. The LIB may include the fields of the universal or expanded BSM as described herein and be communicated using Internet Protocols over the Internet or web-based networks. The LIB may include application programming interfaces (APIs) to interface with machines to receive information about and display or communicate information to humans through the machines regarding the contents of the LIB.

107 107 Luggage Manifest means a digital record containing an array of data including data for pick-up of a luggage item departing a destination point, such as a terminating airport, and delivery to a lodging entity or another travel carrier and return flight check-in based on a digitized IATA license plate, passenger name record (PNR) number and/or text, all of which can be from an originating hardcopy bag tag of the originating first leg of travel. The luggage manifest may include a delivery location, which may include a home address, a government security screening location, temporary holding location, passenger delivery instructions, cabin room, lodging entity address, any intermediate travel carrier location, destination point, rental car location, first-mode travel carrier location, designated return flight air carrier location, and/or designated return travel carrier location. Since, the luggage item has an independent travel experience, its location at a destination point, such as DPmay be at a different location then the passenger at the same DP. For example, if the luggage item is screened for the next mode of travel, the luggage item can be transferred to a trusted custody handler.

Mode of Transportation: Transportation by an air carrier, motor vehicle, locomotive, and maritime vessel. A maritime vessel may include a ferry or a cruise ship. In one or more embodiments, a mode of transportation may be a rental vehicle including rental cars and recreational vehicles, for example.

Passenger Manifest means a record containing an array of data including data for check-in of a return leg of travel of a passenger with a designated return travel carrier. A passenger manifest may be a flight manifest. A passenger manifest may be a manifest of expected passenger for arrival for travel or a stay with a mode of travel.

PNR stands for “Passenger Name Record” and is a known term in the travel industry. It can be a record in the database of an airline or a travel agency that contains all the details of a passenger's itinerary and trip information. This information includes the passenger's name, contact information, flight details, seat preferences, and any special requests. PNR also may contain information about the booking, such as the booking date, fare, and ticketing status. It is used by the airlines and travel agencies to manage and keep track of the passenger's itinerary and travel plans. PNR number may be unique for each passenger, or a group of passengers and it's used as reference for the passengers, airlines and travel agencies. PNR is also used to check-in, check flight status, and make any changes to the reservation. The PNR number itself is typically 6 characters, often a combination of letters and numbers. While regulatory bodies like IATA (see above) do not dictate a universal format for PNRs, each PNR has five (5) mandatory fields including: (1) the phone for traveler or agent; (2) the last person who made changes in the PNR; (3) the itinerary which must include at least one segment of the journey; (4) the name of the passenger or passengers including full first and last names; and (5) specifying how and when a ticket is to be issued. Although the PNR number for airlines is currently 6 characters, the PNR number may increase in characters and should not be limited to the number of characters but to the current guidelines of the airline industry now and in the future. In other industries or travel carriers, the PNR number uses a different number sequence. Some systems may use a super PNR number that combines PNR numbers of a plurality of travel carriers and lodging entities, including rental cars, hotels, etc.

2 FIG.B Printed Instrument means a physical substrate imprinted with specific information related to the passenger and the airline carrier compatible with IATA guidelines. Such an instrument may take various forms, ranging from a self-printed bag tag generated through a domestic printing device to a conventional airline bag tag marker conforming to standardized designs as delineated in schematic illustrations like. Beyond the scope of baggage identification, the printed instrument may also encompass a multitude of alternative documents bearing relevant passenger and airline data. A function of this instrument resides in its capacity to serve as either a direct or indirect conduit for extracting a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number. In certain embodiments, this extraction can be facilitated through image capture via a mobile communication device, whereby the instrument itself or associated memory accessible by an operative computer system can divulge the PNR. It should be noted that the airline carrier typically presides over the text and layout attributes of both the originating hardcopy bag tag and any derivative printed instruments, which may contain congruent textual elements.

Radio-frequency identification (RFID) means a technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify, and track tags attached to objects.

Regulations refer to regulatory rules from a government agency commissioned by law to regulate the mode of travel or transportation provides regulations for screening luggage items to board an aircraft, mass transit of land-mode of travel or transportation and maritime vessel security.

Return travel carrier (RTC) means the carrier (e.g., airline) a takes at the conclusion of a stay at a lodging entity or other mode of travel. The RTC in the present disclosure is extracted in a process using the license plate printed by the FMTC to access the PNR of the passenger to build a passenger manifest for the return journey. Among other benefits, this reduces or eliminates data entry, particularly for the lodging entity checking in the passenger for the RTC.

Travel Data refers to data that can be extracted from an airline's B-Type message, a passenger's itinerary, and/or the data in a PNR database.

Type B (or B-Type) messages refer to a specific format of communication that airlines and other entities in the air travel industry use to transmit and receive critical operational data. These messages are standardized and utilized for a wide range of applications, including flight planning, passenger booking and check-in, luggage tracking, weather updates, and other crucial air transport operations. The Type B messaging standard is overseen by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Compared to more modern data types and formats like XML (extensible markup language) and JSON (JavaScript Object Notation), which carry message payloads, Type B messages employ a stringent structure. Type B messages operate on a “store-and-forward” mechanism, whereby a message sender sends data via their service provider, which is then stored for a contracted period, often seven (7) days. The data is delivered directly to a chosen recipient or via a gateway provider if they exist on a different network. Should delivery fail, contractual agreements allow the data to be re-sent, a contingency reflected in the PDM (Possible Duplicate Message) header.

Rules refer to guidelines required by a company or entity owning the vehicle of travel, which may have additional rules for objects to be brought into or on board a vehicle of travel in a luggage item. The rules may be self-governance rules.

Rules and Regulations refer to the combined regulations and rules for both the government agency and the company or entity owning the vehicle of travel regarding types of objects and materials that can be brought into or on board a vehicle of travel in a luggage item.

Super PNR (Passenger Name Record) serves as an aggregated meta-record that encapsulates multiple discrete PNRs, thereby providing a unified identifier for complex travel itineraries. Characterized by its capacity for data aggregation, a Super PNR may incorporate flight information from multiple carriers—potentially cross-referencing partner airlines in code-share or alliance configurations—as well as multimodal transportation options such as rail or bus services. This amalgamated data structure facilitates streamlined itinerary management by offering a singular reference point, thereby ensuring data integrity through synchronized updates across all constituent records. Additionally, a Super PNR can encapsulate enriched data elements, including but not limited to, consolidated baggage information and special service requests, thus augmenting both customer experience and operational efficiency for service providers.

Trusted Custody Handler means persons allowed to transfer secure luggage, baggage, and packages from an air carrier cargo hold or other vehicles of travel without exposing the baggage that would require additional physical security scanning by a governing entity, such as CBP and the Coast Guard, or a private entity to enter a next vehicle of travel or country of travel.

Vehicle of Travel: A vehicle of travel includes a medium of travel. The medium of travel may include mass transit motor vehicles, locomotives, and maritime vessels. A maritime vessel may include a ferry or a cruise ship. The medium of travel may include a stationary building such as a lodging entity or resort. Ferries, cruise ships, and trains like lodging entities may have lodging accommodations as part of the passenger's reservations. Some modes of transportation may include lodging accommodations such as recreational vehicles.

The advantages set forth above, and those made apparent from the foregoing description, are efficiently attained. Since certain changes may be made in the above construction without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matters contained in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.